By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Houston Rockets selecting Alperen Sengun with the 16th overall pick of the 2021 NBA draft added a promising player in the ongoing rebuild. Five games in his first Regular Season, the Turkish center has averaged 7.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2.3 steals, and 0.8 blocks per contest.
“I am learning in each game,” noted Sengun after posting a personal-best 15 points in the loss to the Utah Jazz on Thursday. Lasting 24 minutes was yet another personal best. Also, he had five rebounds and three steals.
The 2021 Turkish League MVP is merely among the young players earning plenty of time on the court and developing their skills under Stephen Silas at Houston. Another similar case, Spanish Usman Garuba, picked 21st overall in the 2021 NBA draft.
“I am feeling great in these lineups with younger players,” said Sengun, “When we have more experience, I believe we are going to play better. We might be lacking experience, but we play with more energy.”
The Rockets fell to 1-4 with the most recent loss. However, wins or losses might not be the top priority for the franchise as young upstarts are steadily upping their games making the future look brighter.
“I am trying to adjust,” admitted the Turkish player, “I was not feeling comfortable to shoot as much last year. Here, I am trying to work on my shooting. I am already feeling more comfortable. My teammates trusting me to shoot makes me more confident.”
Sengun, 19, quickly becoming a fan favorite at Houston, has connected 13/30 field goals, including 2/5 triples so far over his first five NBA appearances.
“I like making plays for my teammates,” he pointed out, “I am happier when a teammate scores after my pass. Sometimes, I prefer to assist than score.”
Coming up for the rebuilding Rockets and Sengun, a five-game road trip starting with a couple of meetings opposite the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday and Tuesday.
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