The Houston Rockets and Alpheren Sengun have officially entered a new era, one led by a blend of youth, length, and now, pure scoring greatness in Kevin Durant.
The teams blockbuster summer trade for the two-time Finals MVP immediately changed the outlook of the franchise, bringing one of the games all-time elite scorers to a young, fast-rising core. For 23-year-old center Alperen Sengun, whos spent years trying to slow Durant down, its a welcome change.
Now I know how we were worried about guarding KD when were playing against him, Sengun told ESPNs Vanessa Richardson. Now, we dont have to worry about that [guarding KD]. Other teams have to worry about that. I am just gonna help him as much as I can, and Im sure he will help everybody.
Now, we dont have to worry about that (guarding KD.) Other teams have to worry about that.
-Alperen Sengun #AllFire @HoustonRockets | @SportsVanessa pic.twitter.com/04MZmNEcP9
Space City Home Network (@SpaceCityHN) October 6, 2025
Durant, entering his 19th NBA season, isnt showing signs of decline after averaging 26.6 points per game on an absurd 53-43-84 shooting split last year with the Phoenix Suns. His arrival gives Houston the type of offensive consistency head coach Ime Udoka has been craving.
Youve seen the numbers and the points that he averages, he kind of does that in his sleep, Udoka said. Just those two aspects alone will obviously improve our consistency across the board.
Durant has been equally impressed with his new frontcourt partner, praising Senguns all-around ability and creativity.
I have played with some bigs that are great at what they do but I think Alpi can pretty much do a little bit of all of that and more, Durant said.
Sengun averaged 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists last season, earning his first All-Star nod, and followed it up with a standout showing at EuroBasket 2025, where he led Turkey to a silver medal. His passing touch and footwork have made him one of the leagues most exciting young bigs, and hes eager to see how Durants presence will open up Houstons offense.
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