By Eurohoops Team / info@eurohoops.net
The Houston Rockets picked up an impressive 140–127 win over the Utah Jazz in their preseason matchup, and Turkish center Alperen Şengün once again showcased his all-around brilliance.
In 28 minutes on the floor, Şengün tallied 13 points, five rebounds, 13 assists, and four steals, continuing to demonstrate why he’s quickly becoming one of the league’s most unique big men.
Following the game, Kevin Durant, who contributed 20 points in his Rockets debut, spoke highly of his young teammate’s impact on the court.
“Yeah, for sure. We’ve got a five who can step out and make plays from the top of the key,” Durant said. “Just that positioning alone opens up so much space for us. It makes us unpredictable because he can go one-on-one, set screens, or make handoff passes. We can set screens for him, too. When the ball’s in his hands, he confuses the defense, and we trust him to make the right decision every time.”
Durant went on to explain how his on-court chemistry with Şengün creates problems for opposing defenses.
“When he’s posting up and I’m spaced in the corner or up top — or even on the same side as him — defenses get caught in between. They usually try to send help toward him, but lately I’ve noticed some teams just try to deny me the ball. That actually makes things easier for Alperen,” Durant noted. “And it works both ways. When I’m up top, bigs don’t want to leave him alone, which gives me just enough space to find my rhythm.”
Asked whether double-teams from opponents can actually play to the Rockets’ advantage, Durant didn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely. We want teams to double us,” he said with a smile. “When two guys go to the ball, our offense opens up. Everybody gets more involved, and the game just becomes easier.”