Although his 2023-24 season is likely over due to knee and ankle injuries recently had pain in his right leg, Alperen Sengun has already made a sufficiently positive impression on the Houston Rockets.
With his third NBA season officially over, the 21-year-old rising star will be eligible for a new contract. His current rookie contract expires after the 2024-25 championship yearfor which Sengun should return healthy.
While salary cap calculation could prompt the Rockets to wait for a new contract until the 2025 offseason, rather than this summer, it’s becoming clear that Houston views the Turkish phenom as a key part of its future. Here’s what head coach Ime Udoka said Matt Thomas on SportsTalk 790the team’s official flagship radio:
He is a great anchor for the position. He initiates so much offense and attracts so much attention. He attracted everyone’s attention. We will certainly miss him.
I’m proud of what he’s done this year and the progress he’s made. I think he’s taken a big step forward and we look forward to having him for years to come.
A crafty 6-foot-10 big man, Sengun averaged 21.1 points (53.7% FG), 9.3 rebounds and 5 assists in 63 games this season. His success has played a key role in the success of the improving Rockets (30-35), who are well ahead of their 22-60 record from last season and have now won five of their last six games.
Udoka-Thomas’ full interview can be listened to below.
