Alperen Sengun, the rising star and face of the Houston Rockets, has spoken about how Kevin Durant has seamlessly integrated into the team since joining. Though Durant carries a high-profile reputation, Sengun remains the central figure of the Rockets, noting that Durant’s arrival was partly influenced by the chance to play alongside a burgeoning All-Star talent like himself.
In a recent interview with Turkish sports analyst Socrates Dergi, Sengun shared insights from his first interactions with Durant, highlighting their developing chemistry both on and off the court. He recounted how he waited a couple of weeks after Durant’s arrival before reaching out to welcome him personally.
I gave him two weeks to settle in first, then I messaged him. I told him, ‘Welcome to the team, I can’t wait to play with you. We’re gonna have a great year.’ He replied immediately, saying, ‘We’re going to do great stuff this year.’
—Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets Forward
Sengun also recalled a humorous moment regarding their gameplay adjustment when Durant encouraged him to adapt to a more team-focused style rather than isolating on ball handling.
Last season, I told him one game, ‘Don’t come to double me, let me play one on one.’ He said, ‘No way, you’re an All-Star now. You’re no longer going to play one-on-one. Get used to it.’
—Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets Forward
The 23-year-old Sengun averaged 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists last season, earning his first NBA All-Star honor and becoming the Rockets’ first active All-Star since James Harden’s departure in 2021. His emergence solidified his status as a team leader and key reason for Durant’s decision to join Houston.
Reflecting on the Playoff Experience Against the Warriors
Sengun also discussed the Rockets’ recent playoff series, marking his first postseason appearance in the NBA. The Rockets faced the Golden State Warriors, a team that had posed significant challenges throughout the regular season.
The Warriors were probably the one team that would have given us the most trouble, and we drew them.
—Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets Forward
He described the Warriors as a highly experienced team who played with physicality and often committed fouls that went uncalled during the playoffs, a pattern that frustrated Houston’s efforts.
They’re a very experienced team, and they fouled a lot. In the playoffs, they don’t call it. But they were the ones crying all series about fouls not being called.
—Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets Forward
Regarding the Rockets’ mindset, Sengun revealed that complaints about officiating were heavily discouraged by head coach Ime Udoka to maintain focus and discipline throughout the series.
When it comes to us, we’re not really allowed to complain. It’s more of an internal thing. Ime Udoka doesn’t allow it. He loses his mind if we complain.
—Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets Forward
The playoff series extended to a decisive Game 7, where the Rockets narrowly lost following a standout performance by Buddy Hield. Despite the defeat, the experience exposed the Rockets’ need for a reliable closer, a role Kevin Durant was brought in to fulfill.
This series provided valuable lessons for the Rockets’ young core and set the stage for the team’s growth. With Durant now integrated, Houston aims to leverage this momentum for a deeper playoff run in the 2025-26 season.
Future Outlook on Kevin Durant’s Role and Contract Status
While Kevin Durant has become a critical contributor to the Houston Rockets, the organization is currently not prioritizing a contract extension with him. This decision fits into the broader strategic considerations for the team’s long-term roster planning and financial flexibility.
The ongoing evolution of the Rockets’ lineup, combined with the blend of Sengun’s emerging leadership and Durant’s experience, suggests the team is building toward sustained competitiveness. How Houston balances contract decisions and on-court performance will shape their trajectory in the coming seasons.