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Jalen Green Scores 41 & Alperen Sengun THE CLOSER In Houston Rockets Overtime Win Vs 76ers
Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun Shine in Rockets’ Overtime Victory
The Houston Rockets showcased resilience and talent in their thrilling 122-115 overtime win against the Philadelphia 76ers. Jalen Green was the star of the night, delivering a season-high 41 points, while Alperen Sengun emerged as the closer, proving his mettle in crunch time.
Alperen Sengun: The Closer
While Green’s scoring was vital, Alperen Sengun’s role as the closer cannot be overstated. Despite a slow start, Sengun came alive in overtime, scoring 11 of his 22 points and grabbing five rebounds. His defensive efforts were equally impressive, highlighted by a crucial block on Tyrese Maxey that was initially called a goaltend but later overturned upon review.
Sengun’s ability to perform under pressure was evident as he helped hold Maxey scoreless in overtime. His defensive presence and strategic play were instrumental in the Rockets victory. Coach Ime Udoka’s decision to trust Sengun with the final play of regulation, despite his earlier struggles, underscored the confidence the team has in his abilities.
The Rockets win was a collective effort, but the performances of Green and Sengun stood out. Green’s offensive explosion and Sengun’s clutch play in overtime highlight the potential of this young Rockets team. As they continue to develop, these two players will be central to their success.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Rockets thrilling victory, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Jalen Green’s Offensive Masterclass
Jalen Green was unstoppable, scoring 41 points on an efficient 12 of 20 shooting, including 4 of 6 from beyond the arc. His ability to draw fouls was crucial, as he went 13 of 14 from the free-throw line. Green’s performance was not just about scoring; he also contributed seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block. Despite five turnovers, his offensive prowess kept the Rockets in the game while other starters were drained from the overtime game against the Wolves the night before.
Green’s aggressive approach, particularly his relentless attacks on the rim, set the tone early. With no Joel Embiid to protect the paint, Green exploited the 76ers’ defense, showcasing his ability to drive and finish. His decision-making was sharp, and he maintained his intensity throughout the game, a testament to his growing maturity as a player.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- Analysis of the Rockets defensive strategies against Tyrese Maxey
- The impact of the “Terror Twins,” Tari Eason and Amen Thompson, off the bench
- Dillon Brooks’ struggles and his role in the team’s dynamics
- A look at the Rockets rotation and potential adjustments
- Discussion on the Rockets turnover issues and their impact on the game
Giving thanks for a better-than-expected rookie class
Happy Thanksgiving! To give you something to talk about with your undoubtedly NBA-fluent families and friends, here are some rookie rankings to chew over.
1. Jared McCain, Philadelphia 76ers
Over his last ten games, McCain has averaged 23 points per game (top 25 in the league in that span) on solid efficiency, including 39% from deep on crazy volume. Philly hasn’t had much to cheer about this season, but McCain’s surprising on-ball creation and superb off-ball movement have Philly fans seeing a future star (wait, maybe that’s just their court). I’m obsessed with this little moonwalk he uses to shake OG Anunoby juuuust enough to bury a shuriken in his eye:
McCain moonwalks into a three over OG Anunoby
McCain likely won’t score like this when the team’s fully healthy (and he’s cooled off the last two games), but the fact that he can is a great sign for the team’s present and future.
2. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Castle has risen to second place thanks to an excellent recent stretch. Since becoming a starter, Castle’s averaged 15 points, three boards, and five assists while playing ferocious defense.
Castle is incredibly versatile. At nearly 6’6” pre-shoes and pre-hair, he has the size and speed to fill any number of roles. As I wrote about at length here, he’s quickly becoming the perfect amorphous fit next to Victor Wembanyama.
Although his three-point accuracy is still developing, Castle’s confidence in his shot is the skeleton key that unlocks the rest of his offensive game. And the more effective he is on offense, the more opportunity he’s given to create absolute havoc on defense.
I’m particularly intrigued by his ability to be a faux-big man in the screen and roll:
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Analysis Dillon Brooks has shown significant offensive improvement for the Houston Rockets this season. Discover the details of his performance enhancements. (Sports Illustrated)
Analysis
The Houston Rockets draw comparisons to the champion Celtics, showcasing their potential and strategic growth. Explore the comparison to see how they stack up. (Sports Illustrated)
Milestone 10,000. Thank you for being one of the first 10,000 readers across our Locked On newsletters. And, we’d be extra thankful if you forwarded this newsletter to a friend to help us reach more fans who cannot get enough of their favorite team.
Must Read LaMelo’s proclivity for fouls, how many wins Philadelphia needs for the play-in, examining OKC’s defense, and more. (ESPN+)
Feel Good The Pistons’ willingness to spend, the Nets’ and Lakers’ new coach, and more things for each NBA team to be thankful for. (CBS Sports)
Analysis A roundtable of experts discusses the league’s biggest storylines after the first month of the season. (Fansided)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
In case you missed it...
Nov 26, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward/center Lauri Markkanen (23) on the floor after a collision with San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images | Christopher Creveling/Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Another Lauri Markkanen Injury For Fantasy Basketball Managers To Digest | Lauri Markkanen’s recent knee injury could sideline him for at least a week, impacting fantasy basketball strategies. This opens opportunities for players like John Collins, Keyonte George, and Brice Sensabaugh to increase their roles and fantasy value.
Ja Morant Is Set To Return And Impact Fantasy Basketball Leagues | Monday’s NBA action saw significant fantasy basketball impacts, with Gary Harris and Jalen Suggs suffering hamstring injuries, potentially increasing roles for Cole Anthony and Anthony Black.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Rockets podcasts.
Alperen Sengun Two-Way Force & Amen Thompson CLUTCH Plays In Houston Rockets OT Win Vs Wolves Breaking down the Rockets thrilling overtime win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, clinching NBA Cup West Group A and advancing to the Knockout Round, including Alperen Sengun’s evolution into a two-way force and Amen Thompson’s clutch moments.
Can Alperen Sengun & Houston Rockets Clinch NBA Cup Group Vs Anthony Edwards & Wolves? Explore the Rockets defensive prowess, led by a rejuvenated Tari Eason and the evolving skills of Alperen Sengun. Discover how Anthony Edwards remarkable three-point shooting could shift the Timberwolves strategy and more.
Dillon Brooks Dominates, Fred VanVleet & Jalen Green Struggle As Houston Rockets Go 1-1 Vs Blazers Explore the highs and lows of the Houston Rockets back-to-back matchups against the Portland Trail Blazers, breaking down Dillon Brook’s season high 28-point performance, Jalen Green’s inconsistent play and Fred VanVleet’s decision-making in crucial moments.
