It wasn’t just an opening night, but a statement. Alperen Sengun’s record-breaking performance in the Houston Rockets’ 125–124 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder was one for the history books. The 23-year-old forward put together a dazzling stat line of 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, marking one of the most complete games of his young career.
Sengun also set a new personal milestone, hitting a career-high five three-pointers. His combination of interior dominance, outside shooting, and court vision once again showcased why he’s quickly becoming one of the league’s most versatile big men.
Though Houston fell just short in a tense, controversial finish, Sengun’s display was a reminder that the Rockets’ future, and perhaps their present, runs through him.
Alperen Sengun Breaks Records in Huge Performance vs. Thunder
Beyond the box score, Sengun entered elite territory with his performance. He became the third-youngest forward in NBA history to record at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 made threes in a single game. The only players to do it younger? LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
The comparison feels fitting. Like Durant, Sengun has evolved his game to stretch defenses, adding confidence from long range without sacrificing his interior craft. And like LeBron, he reads the floor like a guard, orchestrating Houston’s offense with a level of intelligence rarely seen from a frontcourt player.
Coming off a strong offseason, including a standout showing for Turkey at EuroBasket, where he earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Dončić, Sengun’s rhythm and confidence have clearly carried over to the NBA hardwood. His 39-point night was the second-highest scoring output of his career, behind only his 45-point explosion against Sacramento in 2023–24.
A Star’s Validation and a New Level of Respect
It wasn’t just fans who took notice. CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn called the game “a welcome to the All-NBA club moment” for Sengun, emphasizing that while the Rockets didn’t get the win, their young star’s performance elevated his standing league-wide.
Even teammate Kevin Durant, who scored 23 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in his Houston debut, was quick to praise Sengun’s aggressiveness.
“It’s not about me taking the last shot every night,” Durant said postgame. “We play as a team. Tonight, we went to Sengun more because he was exploiting his matchup. Next game it might be me, or Amen Thompson. That’s who we are: a team.”
Coach Ime Udoka made a tactical shift, using Sengun as a power forward alongside Steven Adams in the paint to counter Oklahoma City’s size. The adjustment allowed Sengun more freedom to operate offensively, and he took full advantage. Whether working inside against smaller defenders or stretching out to the perimeter, he dictated the pace of the game.
A Historic Night in a Tough Loss
Despite Sengun’s brilliance, Houston couldn’t close the deal. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 35 points, while Chet Holmgren added 28 before being ejected in the second overtime. The Rockets’ 21 turnovers and several missed free throws late in regulation proved costly, allowing OKC to capitalize on critical mistakes.
Still, Sengun’s night wasn’t just about numbers. After being one of the most overlooked rising stars in recent seasons, this game firmly placed him in the conversation with the league’s best big men.
Houston’s locker room, though disappointed with the loss, left Oklahoma knowing they have something special. Sengun’s leadership, skill, and maturity shone through every possession. Durant put it best: “He’s the guy who makes us dangerous.”
The Rockets will look to bounce back on Friday (24) against the Detroit Pistons, but for now, all eyes remain on Alperen Sengun, whose performance reminded the basketball world that greatness doesn’t always need a win to be recognized.
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