'Consistent Growth' is Needed For Rockets' Cam Whitmore to Receive More Minutes

Cam Whitmore has remained at the end of the Houston Rockets rotation, but coach Ime Udoka would like to see "consistent growth" before awarding more playing time.

HOUSTON — When the Houston Rockets decided not to re-assign Cam Whitmore to the G-League on Dec. 27, there was optimism that the rookie forward would receive more playing time within coach Ime Udoka's rotation.

Whitmore had just scored a career-high 14 points in a blowout victory over the Dallas Mavericks. A few days later, more minutes opened up for Whitmore due to the injuries to Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith Jr. 

However, Whitmore has since received DNPs in three of the previous four games. As a rookie still trying to establish himself, Udoka said consistency is the key to Whitmore receiving more minutes as the season continues.

Rockets forward Cam Whitmore reacts after a made basket against the Phoenix Suns during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center / Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports

"For guys trying to get on the court and play, it's about consistent growth and awareness," Udoka said. "That is what it's all about. That has been the reasoning behind us not winning games. And for the guys who are not playing, they are further behind the guys who are playing."

Whitmore has spent his entire rookie season honing his talents with the Rio Grande Vally Vipers. He appeared in 13 games, proving why he could be the biggest steal of the 2023 NBA Draft, where he fell to the Rockets with the 20th selection.

He led the G League in scoring, averaging 26.2 points, while meeting Udoka's challenge of improving his defense. Whitmore recorded 6.8 rebounds while tied for ninth in the G League after registering 2.1 steals.

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Before rejoining the Rockets, Whitmore scored a team-high 19 points while adding nine rebounds and two steals amid the Vipers' loss to the Rip City Remix on Dec. 21.