Houston Rockets' Rookie Amen Thompson Shows Confidence in Second Preseason Game

Amen Thompson has come into the league with doubters, but he is showing confidence in his shooting despite his past struggles.

When the Houston Rockets selected Amen Thompson with the fourth pick of the 2023 NBA Drat, they knew he had to improve his shooting.

In his time with Overtime Elite, Thompson shot a less-than-desirable 23.0 percent from beyond the arc. The Rockets knew this when he was drafted, and immediately started working with him to develop his confidence.

Thompson showed this newfound confidence in the Rockets' second preseason game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Thursday night, he finished the game with 12 points off the bench shooting 4-of-7 from the field, which helped the Rockets take a 120-87 win over the Pelicans. 

Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1) poses for a picture at Rockets media day at Toyota Center / Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

While only shooting 1-of-3 from 3-point range in the game, Thompson showed his improved confidence. 

Thompson came off of a screen at the start of the second half and shot a well-contested three that he made with 15 seconds left on the shot clock. Thompson's 3-point field goal showcased how he has gained confidence in his shooting.

"He's getting up to speed," coach Ime Udoka said. "He's learning on the fly. He already has some natural abilities and instincts that you can't teach, and the IQ and the passing ability that stands out immediately. But he'll learn as he goes. He's done a great job."

If he can develop a 3-point shot and become a consistent shooter, there may be no limit to what Thompson can do. He and the rest of the Rockets will be back in action on Monday against the San Antonio Spurs inside the Frost Bank Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.