Rockets Season Preview: Will Alperen Sengun Meet His Top Goal?

After a promising first two years in the league, Alperen Sengun has set an individual goal that could be well in reach during his third season with the Houston Rockets.

HOUSTON — The 2023-24 season will not only be a critical year for Jalen Green, but also for Alperen Sengun.

Sengun has shown star potential throughout his first two seasons as a member of the Houston Rockets. But as the franchise enters phase II of its rebuild, Sengun sees himself taking a significant leap with his individual development that will result in an All-Star selection.

"Like everyone else, my goal is to become an All-Star," Sengun said per Eurohoops. "I hope I can do that. Last season Sengun greatly improved his numbers, averaging 14.8 points, 9.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists while establishing himself as a starter."

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports, Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) attempts to score as Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) defends

Becoming an All-Star may not be an unrealistic goal for Sengun. He has been a rising star since the Rockets traded up with the Oklahoma City Thunder to draft the then-Turkish prospect with the No. 16 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Sengun has averaged 12.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.2 steals across 147 career games while gaining the respect of his idols.

His most significant praise came from Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic. Following a 129-113 loss to the Nuggets in November, the two-time league MVP winner suggested that the Rockets' offense should run through Sengun.

Although it took some time, Sengun will have a greater responsibility as one of the Rockets' primary playmakers due to Kevin Porter Jr.'s off-court transgression. 

"I think they need to play a little bit more through him," Jokic said in November. "This guy has the talent. He can pass the ball. He can post up. He has the touch around the rim. You can see some different moves that he’s made."

An immense leap in year three for Sengun may not only result in an All-Star selection. But achieving his individual goal could lead to Sengun receiving a major payday next summer.