Alperen Sengun has improved his effort levels on the defensive end to begin the new season. The Houston Rockets star has always been seen as a high-level offensive talent. However, there have been concerns about his ability to develop into a two-way threat for his team. Since Ime Udoka took over the head coaching role, he challenged the third-year big man to improve his defensive intensity.
When speaking to the media following the Rockets’ Nov. 10 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, Udoka praised the defensive strides Sengun has made since becoming the team’s head coach in the offseason.
“Show’s his buy-in,” Udoka said. “He’s been getting better all year, game by game…And the growth he’s showing on the defensive end, let alone the hustle plays. You know, he’s a gifted offensive guy that’s bough in on that end (the defensive,) and it’s made a huge difference for our team.”
Sengun is a potential future All-Star. His offensive upside is unquestionable. Yet, if he can develop into a two-way performer, his impact on the Rockets will elevate to a new level. As a key offensive and defensive player, Senugun’s upside becomes an All-NBA level big man in the future.
Ime Udoka says Alperen Sengun has been getter better defensively game by game. "He's a gifted offensive guy that's bought in on (the defensive) end and it's made a huge difference for our team." pic.twitter.com/HtIqExS9xD
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Udoka is a defense-first coach. He will ensure the Rockets give 100% on that side of the floor in every game. Teams can have poor shooting nights, whereas a stringent effort-based defensive system will keep you competitive no matter what. And that’s why Houston could gatecrash the playoffs at the end of the current season.
