The Latest Breaking News from Houston

Thursday was a banner night for Auburn’s Jabari Smith, LSU’s Tari Eason, and Kentucky’s TyTy Washington Jr., who were drafted in the NBA’s 2022 first round by the Rockets.

Jabari Smith in Houston and Chet Holmgren in Oklahoma City lead the list of players who will likely fit in perfectly with their new teams.

Houston traded back three slots from No. 26 to No. 29 in the first round. The wheeling and dealing resulted in Kentucky guard TyTy Washington Jr. and two future second-round picks.

Jabari Smith on joining the Rockets: “I know if I come in every day trying to win, everything else will take care of itself. I am looking forward to a big year.”

NEW YORK — Jose Altuve stepped into the batter’s box, ready to lead off the game. Chants and very loud boos spilled from the stands at Yankee Stadium. But the boos quickly turned to cheers after Jameson Taillon drilled the seven-time All-Star in the elbow guard with his third pitch.

The Rockets had the NBA’s worst defense last season, and they addressed that deficiency by drafting versatile LSU forward Tari Eason at No. 17 overall on Thursday.

In a draft night stunner, Jabari Smith is now with the Rockets. Here’s our look at key takeaways from his selection, as well as reaction to the pick by NBA draft media and fans.

The Tigers star has found a new home in Houston.

Keith Pompey: The #Sixers are trying to acquire Eric Gordon and using Matisse Thybulle as an asset, even attempting to get a third team to participate, according to multiple league sources. The Portland Trail Blazers are willing to make a ...

Per ESPN, Patrick Fertitta credits Rafael Stone and Eli Witus for “making the hard and, at the time, very unpopular decision” to prioritize draft capital in the Harden trade.

Duke forward Paolo Banchero is increasingly likely to be drafted tonight by the Rockets at No. 3 overall, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.