Title: “Full Circle: Alperen Şengün’s Journey from OKC Draft Pick to Houston Rockets Star”
Alperen Şengün’s NBA journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the unpredictable nature of the draft process. Originally selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Şengün was swiftly traded to the Houston Rockets, setting the stage for a remarkable career. His transition from a draft night trade to becoming a cornerstone of the Rockets’ future is a story of seizing opportunities and proving doubters wrong.(New York Post)
The Draft Night Trade
On July 29, 2021, the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Alperen Şengün with the 16th pick in the NBA Draft. However, before the pick was officially announced, the Thunder traded it to the Houston Rockets in exchange for two future first-round picks. This move was part of the Rockets’ strategy to acquire a young, talented big man with a unique skill set. General Manager Rafael Stone expressed the team’s excitement, highlighting Şengün’s MVP-caliber performance in the Turkish league as a significant factor in their decision .(Sporting News)
Early Days in Houston
Upon joining the Rockets, Şengün quickly became a fan favorite. His exceptional footwork, basketball IQ, and versatility on both ends of the court stood out. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a future star .(Wikipedia)
The 2023–24 Season: A Breakout Year
The 2023–24 season marked a significant turning point in Şengün’s career. He emerged as the Rockets’ primary offensive weapon, averaging 21.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His performance earned him a third-place finish in the Most Improved Player voting and solidified his status as a rising star in the league .(New York Post, ESPN.com)
Contract Extension and All-Star Recognition
In October 2024, the Houston Rockets rewarded Şengün’s development by signing him to a five-year, $185 million rookie extension, making him the first player to sign such a deal with a player option for the final year since Luka Dončić and Trae Young . Shortly after, in January 2025, Şengün was named an NBA All-Star for the first time, a recognition of his hard work and dedication .(New York Post, Wikipedia)
The Playoff Debut
April 2025 saw Şengün make his playoff debut with the Rockets. Despite a first-round exit against the Golden State Warriors, Şengün’s performances were commendable. In Game 1, he recorded 26 points, nine rebounds, and three steals, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure .(Wikipedia)
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, Şengün’s path from being a draft pick traded on the same night to becoming a franchise cornerstone is remarkable. His story underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities, no matter how unexpected they may seem. For the Houston Rockets, Alperen Şengün represents not just a talented player but a symbol of the team’s future aspirations and potential.(Wikipedia)
As the Rockets continue to build around young talents like Şengün, the future looks promising. His journey serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with determination and the right opportunities, one can turn unexpected circumstances into a successful and fulfilling career.
