Don’t look now, but the Houston Rockets are officially back in the playoff spotlight—and not just sneaking in, either. As the #2 seed in the Western Conference, the Rockets have shocked the league, turning what was supposed to be another rebuilding year into a full-blown coming-out party. And it’s all thanks to a trio of young stars who have taken the city to new heights: @jalen (Jalen Green), @amen.thompson, and @alperen.sengun.
Now, the stage is set. The Rockets are taking on the battle-tested Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs, and the basketball world will be watching closely Sunday at 9:30pm/et on TNT.
🔥 Jalen Green: The Spark Plug Turned Star
When Jalen Green was drafted No. 2 overall in 2021, the talent was obvious. But this year, he’s gone from raw scorer to leader. Green has elevated his game on both ends of the court, showing improved shot selection, sharper playmaking, and most importantly—confidence. He’s taken the responsibility of being Houston’s go-to scorer and hasn’t flinched.
Averaging over 22 points per game, Jalen’s explosiveness and highlight-reel athleticism have become staples in every Rockets win. He’s no longer just a walking bucket—he’s a tone-setter. And in crunch time, he’s delivered time and time again.
🚀 Amen Thompson: The Engine Off the Bench
Rookie phenom Amen Thompson might be the best-kept secret of the NBA season—though not for long. The 6’7” point-forward has been everywhere for Houston, doing a little bit of everything: initiating the offense, locking down top scorers, grabbing boards, and throwing down nasty dunks in transition.
His versatility and court vision are elite for a first-year player, and his ability to come off the bench and change the game has been a huge reason Houston has been able to dominate teams for full 48-minute stretches. Thompson is the kind of guy who doesn’t just fill a role—he creates chaos for the other team, and Coach Ime Udoka has leaned into that all year.
🪄 Alperen Sengun: The Turkish Joker
Where do you even begin with Alperen Sengun? The third-year big man has blossomed into an All-Star caliber centerpiece. Often compared to Nikola Jokić for his flashy passing and crafty footwork, Sengun brings a unique skill set to the Rockets offense. He can score in the post, shoot the mid-range, find cutters with no-look dimes, and even lead the break.
Defensively, he’s improved leaps and bounds, showing quicker reads and better rim protection. But it’s his chemistry with Green and Thompson that’s made him so dangerous. This trio feeds off each other—and Sengun is often the glue that ties it all together.
📈 A New Identity in Houston
Under head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have transformed from a fun-but-flawed young squad to a well-oiled machine. They defend. They run. They move the ball. They’ve beaten playoff-caliber teams consistently and held their ground through injuries and adversity.
What’s most exciting? They’re still just scratching the surface.
With the league’s second-best home record and a top-five defense, Houston earned every bit of that #2 seed. And now, they’ve got their eyes set on proving that this wasn’t a fluke—it’s the start of something big.
🆚 Golden State: A Test of Fire
Standing in their way? The Golden State Warriors, led by none other than Stephen Curry. Experience, rings, and clutch gene? The Dubs have it all. But Houston has youth, hunger, and momentum. It’s the classic clash: rising stars vs living legends.
Game 1 is shaping up to be electric. Will Curry remind everyone why he’s one of the greatest to ever do it? Or will the Rockets’ new trio take that next big leap and shock the basketball world again?
Don’t miss it—Sunday, 9:30pm/et on TNT. The playoffs are here, and Houston is ready.
