THESE IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Houston Rocket National basketball Team (NBA) are overjoyed as head coach Ime Udoka makes announcement of making star centre Alperen Şengün the new…see more

In a move that has electrified Rockets fans across the globe and sent shockwaves through the NBA, Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka made a bold, heartfelt announcement during Monday’s press conference: Alperen Şengün is officially being named the new franchise cornerstone of the Houston Rockets.

While the Turkish-born center has steadily risen in both production and popularity over the past three seasons, today’s announcement was more than just ceremonial — it was symbolic. It represents a clear shift in Houston’s basketball identity, strategy, and future ambitions.

Udoka didn’t mince words:

The Rise of Şengün

Drafted 16th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, Alperen Şengün arrived in Houston as a relatively unknown 18-year-old from Beşiktaş in Turkey. What he lacked in name recognition, he made up for with skill, poise, and an old-school offensive style that immediately caught the attention of NBA purists.

Fast forward four seasons, and the 6’11” center has blossomed into one of the most complete big men in the league. In the 2024–25 season, Şengün averaged:

• 21.3 points per game

• 10.6 rebounds

• 5.4 assists

• 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks

• 57% from the field, 36% from three

And yet, it’s not just the numbers that define Şengün’s rise — it’s the way he plays the game. His high-post passing, footwork, and court vision have drawn comparisons to Nikola Jokić, while his growing confidence and vocal leadership have endeared him to coaches, teammates, and fans alike.

Why Now?

Coach Udoka’s declaration comes on the heels of a rollercoaster season that saw the Rockets narrowly miss the playoffs but make dramatic improvements in nearly every category — particularly defensively. With young talent like Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson still developing, many speculated on who the team would ultimately commit to as their foundational player.

Now, that question has been answered definitively.

“We’ve seen leadership from Alperen not just in games, but in the locker room, in practice, off the court,” said Udoka. “He’s a connector. He makes others better. We believe in him not just as an All-Star, but as the heart of our culture moving forward.”

What Being “The Cornerstone” Means

Rockets general manager Rafael Stone later clarified that this title isn’t just symbolic — it affects how the team builds its roster, runs its offense, and approaches free agency.

“Alperen is now our North Star,” Stone said. “That means we’re looking at fits around his game. Shooters, cutters, defenders who can complement his passing and court presence. It also means we’re serious about winning now.”

The Rockets are expected to be active in free agency and trade talks this summer, with reports already linking them to veteran wing help and frontcourt depth to support Şengün.

Teammates React

News of Şengün’s elevation was met with unanimous approval from his teammates.

Jalen Green, who once was seen as the face of the Rockets rebuild, posted on Instagram:

“Couldn’t happen to a better dude. Big 28 is HIM. Let’s work.”

Veteran guard Fred VanVleet also chimed in:

“Seen a lot of bigs in this league — few think the game like Alperen. This kid’s special.”

Even former Rockets players weighed in, with Hakeem Olajuwon, the franchise’s all-time great center, releasing a rare public statement praising the move:

“Alperen plays the game with intelligence, humility, and skill. He carries the Rockets legacy forward with pride. I am proud to see this day.”

A New Era in Houston

Since James Harden’s departure in 2021, the Rockets have undergone a painful but promising rebuild. Now, with Şengün as the centerpiece, the franchise seems poised to re-enter the playoff picture with purpose.

Ime Udoka has instilled discipline and defensive accountability, and Şengün’s commitment to improving on that end has not gone unnoticed.

“Defense was the challenge,” Şengün admitted during the presser. “Coach Udoka pushed me hard, and I’ve accepted that challenge. I want to be great on both sides of the floor.”

The International Impact

Şengün’s elevation also marks a major moment for international basketball. As the first Turkish player to be named the official franchise cornerstone of an NBA team, Şengün has become a symbol of pride for Turkish fans and young international prospects everywhere.

Social media in Turkey erupted in celebration following the news, with hashtags like #AlperenRockets and #TurkishDream trending nationally.

Turkish Basketball Federation President Hidayet Türkoğlu said:

“This is a historic moment for Turkish basketball. Alperen represents the best of our nation — skill, intelligence, and humility. He is now the face of one of the NBA’s great franchises.”

What’s Next for the Rockets?

With Şengün at the center — literally and figuratively — the Rockets are now expected to fast-track their playoff ambitions. Sources around the league say Houston is pursuing multiple veteran wings and is open to trading future draft picks to accelerate the timeline.

A rumored target? Mikal Bridges, should the Brooklyn Nets decide to reset.

But regardless of who joins the team, the message from the Rockets is clear: they’ve made their choice. Alperen Şengün is not just their starting center — he’s their future.