ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith on Houston Rockets' Ime Udoka: 'The Difference is Him'

After leading the Houston Rockets to a .500 record 16 games into the season, coach Ime Udoka receives praise from ESPN's Stephen A. Smith.

HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets are the only team in the league without a road win, but that hasn't stopped the general public from respecting the improvements the franchise has made 16 games into the 2023-24 season.

From the off-season acquisitions of several players to Alperen Şengün's respective improvements, the Rockets currently hold an 8-8 record.  

There's been several significant factors that have played a role in Houston's early success. But in a recent episode of First Take, ESPN's Stephen A. Smith believes no one deserves more credit for the Rockets' early season success than coach Ime Udoka.  

"I do want to take a moment to give love to the Houston Rockets," Smith said. "The Rockets are 8-8. This is a young team, as well. Ime Udoka is reminding everybody of that rookie coach who went to Boston and did in his first year as a head coach what the great Brad Stevens couldn’t do in seven or eight years and that’s take them to the NBA Finals.

"Ime Udoka, excuse my language, can coach his a** off. It is just that simple. I’m watching Houston, and I’m seeing them on the come-up. The difference is him, and his coaching."

Houston Rockets' Ime Udoka coaching during a pre-season game against the Pacers / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Udoka has not only helped the Rockets improve their play on both ends. But the second-year head coach has also helped restore the franchise's respect.

Everyone has taken notice of the Rockets' improvements under Udoka, which includes Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown — who believes Houston is 'playing more together.' 

"You can tell that some of those veterans are helping the young guys out," Brown said. "They are playing more together, they're playing harder. It doesn't seem like you will be able to get easy baskets, especially in transition, like in the past. Ime is doing a nice job with a young team."

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