Sengun’s Meteoric Rise in Houston
Alperen Sengun, the Houston Rockets’ All-Star center, is in the midst of a remarkable season. He has scored at least 20 points in six of his last seven games, showcasing his scoring prowess. Additionally, he has secured ten or more rebounds in seven of his last eight outings. With an average of 23 points, 10.3 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and one block per game, Sengun’s performance is nothing short of impressive. His shooting statistics are equally compelling: 48 percent from the field, 44.7 percent from beyond the arc, and 73.9 percent from the foul line. Almost every statistical category reflects the best numbers of his career, signaling his evolution as a player.
A Remarkable Transformation
What stands out most this season is Sengun’s transformation as a three-point shooter. Just a year ago, he struggled from long range, hitting only 23 percent of his attempts. This season, however, he has embraced outside shooting, thanks in part to a dedicated summer working with his Turkish coach. The results are eye-catching, and they underscore his commitment to improving his game.
Dynamic Duo with Durant
Sengun’s development coincides with his burgeoning partnership with Kevin Durant, creating a strikingly effective two-man game. Their chemistry on the court has been evident as they consistently find ways to complement each other’s skill sets. In a recent matchup against the Orlando Magic, both players lit up the scoreboard with 30 points each. Notably, this marks the second consecutive game where they have both scored at least 25 points, a trend that fans can expect to see continue throughout the season.
A New Role for Sengun
Sengun has stepped into the role of the Rockets’ initiator in the half court, a necessary adjustment prompted by Fred VanVleet’s offseason injury. This evolution has been long overdue for anyone who has followed the Rockets over the past few years. His ability to orchestrate the offense has elevated the team’s performance, and his growing comfort in this role is evident.
All-Star Aspirations
The 23-year-old center is not just making waves in Houston; he is also gaining recognition on a national level. NBA writer Nekias Duncan has included Sengun in his early predictions for the 2026 All-Star game. Duncan remarked, “I have really enjoyed the Sengun Experience. The awkward cadence of his drives, the fancy footwork, the audacious passes, the freedom with which he’s pulling from deep. The pick-and-roll reps as the ball-handler, his growing nuance and comfort defensively; it’s all popping for me.” Such praise highlights Sengun’s impact on the court, especially considering the Hall of Famer he is playing alongside.
As Sengun continues to outshine his previous All-Star campaign, the Rockets have every reason to be excited about what lies ahead. His combination of skill, work ethic, and partnership with Durant could spell success for Houston as the season unfolds.
