BREAKING NEWS: Houston Rockets Fan Reacts in Shock As Coach Ime Udoka Makes Surprising Statement Announcing that Alperen Şengün Has Been Made the Franchise Cornerstone
HOUSTON — In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka made a bold and unexpected announcement during a press conference Monday afternoon: “Alperen Şengün is now officially the cornerstone of this franchise.”
The statement, delivered without hesitation, sent shockwaves through the NBA community and ignited a frenzy across social media. While the 21-year-old Turkish center has impressed with his unique blend of post moves, court vision, and basketball IQ, many believed the Rockets were still in search of a clear franchise leader — especially with young talents like Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. on the roster.
One Rockets fan, wearing a retro Yao Ming jersey outside Toyota Center, was nearly speechless after hearing the news.
“Şengün? Don’t get me wrong — I love the guy. He’s crafty, old-school, like watching a young Jokic sometimes… but I didn’t see this coming. I thought it’d be Jalen or maybe we’d make a move in the offseason. This changes everything,” the fan said, shaking his head in disbelief.
Şengün, who averaged 19.3 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in the 2024 season, has become a fan favorite with his flashy passes and crafty footwork in the paint. But Udoka’s endorsement marks a significant turning point for the organization’s direction.
“He embodies everything we want in a leader,” Udoka continued. “His work ethic, team-first mentality, and growth have earned him this role. This team will be built around his strengths moving forward.”
Insiders suggest that this announcement could lead to a rethinking of the team’s future strategy, including potential roster moves to better support Şengün’s skill set. Reactions across the league were swift, with players, analysts, and fans chiming in on what this could mean for the Rockets’ rebuild.
Whether this decision pays off or becomes another gamble in a long list of Houston’s recent rebuild experiments remains to be seen. But one thing is clear — Alperen Şengün is no longer just a promising prospect. According to his coach, he’s the guy.