Alperen Şengün Poised for First NBA All-Star Selection

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Rockets may soon end their five-year All-Star drought, with center Alperen Şengün emerging as a strong candidate for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. Şengün, in his fourth season, is averaging 19.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, leading the Rockets to a 25-12 record and second place in the Western Conference.

ESPN senior writer Kevin Pelton recently projected Şengün as one of the final players to make the Western Conference All-Star roster. “The Rockets have played well enough that coaches might feel obligated to pick a Houston player as an All-Star reserve,” Pelton wrote. “As the team’s leading rebounder and second-leading scorer and distributor, Şengün is the most logical candidate for what would be his All-Star debut.”

Şengün, 22, has become a cornerstone of the Rockets’ resurgence under second-year head coach Ime Udoka. His improved free-throw shooting (73%) and leadership have solidified his role as a franchise player. Despite stiff competition from established stars like Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and Nikola Jokic, Şengün’s performance and team success make him a compelling choice for All-Star honors.

Meanwhile, Rockets guard Jalen Green faces an uphill battle for All-Star recognition in a crowded Western Conference backcourt. Green, averaging 19.1 points per game, is competing against elite guards such as Stephen Curry, Luka Dončić, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc (33.6%), remains a concern, though his contributions have been vital to Houston’s success.

The Rockets’ strong start to the season has reignited hope among fans, with Şengün and Green representing the future of the franchise. Whether Şengün secures his first All-Star nod or not, his emergence as one of the NBA’s premier young centers marks a new era for Houston basketball.