NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
Adhering to team protocols, the Houston Rockets and Alperen Sengun engaged in NBA Preseason 2025 action on Monday, securing a victory against the Atlanta Hawks at the Toyota Center.
The 23-year-old Turkish center played for over 17 minutes, achieving a game-high of 19 points with an impressive shooting performance of 5 out of 9 from the field, including a perfect 2 for 2 from beyond the arc. He showcased his playmaking skills with six assists, along with contributing five rebounds and two blocks.
When asked if his experience representing Turkiye in EuroBasket 2025 prepared him for the upcoming 2025-26 Regular Season, he answered with assurance, “Of course.”
“I had a bit of a mini-season this summer, and since I didn’t take much time off after playing with the national team, that turned out to be beneficial for me. I returned here still in shape and ready for the season,” he elaborated.
While competing in Riga from August 27 to September 14, Sengun averaged 21.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, earning a silver medal and a place in the All-Star Five.
“I just feel stronger. I think I’m also faster. It’s like I consistently feel quicker, whether I have the ball or not,” he added, discussing the effects of his time in the recent FIBA tournament.
Remaining in Houston for their second exhibition match, Ime Udoka’s team is set to host the Utah Jazz on Wednesday; Kevin Durant is expected to join his teammates after missing the preseason opener.
After two additional exhibition games, the Rockets will commence the Regular Season against the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, at Paycom Center on October 21.
Stay updated with the latest news.
