Rockets Shine with Two Players in CBS Sports’ Top 10 Under 25
The Houston Rockets have made a significant mark on the NBA landscape, securing two spots in CBS Sports’ “25 Under 25” list. This recognition comes as no surprise, given the franchise’s recent resurgence driven by astute drafting and a commitment to developing young talent.
A Transformative Rebuild
The Rockets’ journey through rebuilding has not been without its challenges. Fans endured a tough stretch where the team’s games often felt decided by halftime. However, the timeline of just three years of rebuilding is relatively brief in the context of NBA history, especially when compared to other franchises like the Charlotte Hornets, who have seen only one postseason appearance in over a decade.
The tide began to turn for Houston with the hiring of head coach Ime Udoka for the 2023-24 season. Under his leadership, the Rockets showed immediate improvement, narrowly missing the play-in tournament. In his second season, the Rockets soared to the second-best record in the Western Conference, finishing with 52 wins. This turnaround can be largely attributed to general manager Rafael Stone’s exceptional drafting skills.
Key Contributors to Success
Among the standout talents in this young roster is Alperen Sengun, who has emerged as an All-Star center despite being selected outside the lottery. His growth has been complemented by Tari Eason, who has established himself as a formidable two-way player, also drafted beyond the lottery. The franchise’s lottery picks, including Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr., have largely panned out, contributing to the team’s bright future.
There is still uncertainty surrounding rookie Reed Sheppard, who struggled to make an impact in his debut season. This highlights a common challenge for teams striving for contention: balancing the development of unproven young players with the need for immediate contributions from seasoned veterans. Nevertheless, the consensus within the league is that Houston boasts one of the most promising young cores in the NBA.
Recognition on a National Stage
In a testament to their burgeoning talent, CBS Sports writer Adam Finkelstein included two Rockets players in the top ten of his “25 Under 25” list. Alperen Sengun garnered the 10th spot, a ranking that some fans might consider surprisingly low. Finkelstein described Sengun as a polarizing figure among NBA decision-makers, with supporters praising his interior skills and playmaking ability, while critics point to concerns about his athleticism and defensive versatility. As Sengun enters this season in peak physical condition, he has an opportunity to further showcase his skills, particularly in light of Fred VanVleet’s recent injury and alongside a generational scorer like Kevin Durant.
Amen Thompson, a do-it-all forward and guard, ranked eighth on the list. Finkelstein noted Thompson’s status as one of the best athletes and non-Wemby defenders in the league, highlighting his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions. As the Rockets prepare for the upcoming season, Thompson’s potential to play point guard could be tested further with Ime Udoka’s experimentation with jumbo line-ups.
Competing for Recognition
The only other team to feature multiple players in the top ten is the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, which boasts talents like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. This underscores the competitive nature of the league and the significance of Houston’s representation on such a prestigious list.
As the Rockets continue their ascent, the spotlight on Sengun and Thompson serves as a reminder of the franchise’s commitment to cultivating young talent and the bright future that lies ahead.