Amen Thompson’s Breakout Season Fuels Rockets’ Rise in Western Conference

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Rockets, led by second-year standout Amen Thompson, have surged to second place in the Western Conference, defying preseason expectations. Thompson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has emerged as a cornerstone of the Rockets’ rebuild, propelling the team to a 28-12 record as of Jan. 15, 2025.

Thompson, a 6-foot-7 wing, has elevated his game significantly in his sophomore season. After averaging 9.5 points and 6.6 rebounds as a rookie, he has increased his production to 12.6 points and 7.7 rebounds per game this season. His impact, however, extends beyond the stat sheet. Over the last eight games, Thompson has started seven times, posting five double-doubles and averaging 15.6 points and 11.0 rebounds while shooting 56.8% from the field.

“Amen has been a game-changer for us,” said Rockets head coach Ime Udoka. “His versatility on both ends of the floor has been crucial to our success. He’s not just scoring and rebounding; he’s making plays that don’t always show up in the box score.”

Thompson’s development has been a key factor in Houston’s turnaround. Last season, the Rockets finished 11th in the West with a 19-20 record at this point. This year, they are firmly in contention, riding a four-game winning streak since Thompson’s return from a brief injury absence on Jan. 5.

Among second-year players, Thompson leads in win shares (3.8), a metric that quantifies a player’s overall contribution to team success. He ranks ahead of even Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ phenom, who is third in the same category. Thompson’s defensive prowess has also been a revelation, as he averages 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks per game while excelling in multiple defensive roles.

“He’s one of the most complete young players in the league,” said NBA analyst John McKechnie. “His athleticism, basketball IQ, and ability to impact the game in so many ways make him a nightmare for opponents.”

Thompson’s rise has been particularly impressive given his unconventional path to the NBA. He bypassed college and overseas professional leagues to play in the Overtime Elite (OTE) league in Atlanta, where he competed alongside his twin brother, Ausar Thompson. Despite skepticism about his competition level, Thompson has proven his elite talent, showcasing a rare combination of size, speed, and skill.

With Thompson’s emergence, the Rockets are no longer seen as a rebuilding team but as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Thompson to see if he can maintain his ascendant trajectory and lead Houston to even greater heights.