Amen Thompson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is already turning heads. He played the floor general’s role for the Houston Rockets with poise and aplomb. With Fred VanVleet out with a knee injury, Thompson has taken on the added responsibility on the court as a welcome challenge. The 21-year-old is hell-bent on appearing on the NBA All-Defensive Team. He is looking forward to showing what he can do on both sides of the ball.
Thompson’s path has been riddled with obstacles—but he’d have it no other way. He has consistently demonstrated his versatility and determination, averaging over 15 points, nine rebounds, and five assists per game from January until the end of last season. This incredible accomplishment puts him in exclusive company alongside other ball-dominant big men Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, and Domantas Sabonis.
With another impressive showing in the playoffs, Thompson has further solidified his legacy in NBA history. He is now only the third player since the 1983-84 season to post eye-popping totals in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks across his first 146 games. Join us in congratulating Ace, the only other players to reach this milestone are Lionel Simmons and Chris Webber.
Thompson’s average playing time has more than tripled. He’s currently averaging a career-high 36.3 minutes per game as he adjusts to his new role. His shift to full-time point guard is an indication of the Rockets’ confidence in his skill and future.
Growing up in Oakland, California, Thompson and his twin brother Ausar often traded spots on opposite teams during their recreational youth basketball competitions. Ausar currently plays for the Detroit Pistons as a shooting guard. This starting experience has set up the stage for Amen’s strong delivery today.
Thompson thanks some NBA legends for molding the way he plays today. He often studies highlights from players like Rajon Rondo, Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, John Wall, and Chris Paul to learn how to seize opportunities on the court.
“I love watching those type of guys to see how they attack when given the opportunity,” – Amen Thompson
Troy Thompson Jr., Amens sibling, knew his ability from a young age. This brings Gilbert back to his glory days of youth when Amen would switch between point guard and shooting guard.
“There were times where Ausar was the point guard and Amen was the shooting guard,” – Troy Thompson Jr.
As they grew older, both brothers learned to be dynamic combo guards, adept at switching roles depending on the game’s needs.
“So, when they switched roles, Amen started having a bigger impact. The next thing they did was learn how to be combo guards and switch off from lead ballhandler to secondary ballhandler,” – Troy Thompson Jr.
This nimbleness would be a boon to Thompson as he encountered new challenges during his time with the Rockets. He’s aware that any good point guard needs to do a lot more than score. Facilitating plays and putting in work defensively are important parts of the role.
“I don’t think about it. When I think about it, that’s when it doesn’t go as well. I know I guard the best player. I know I need to do whatever the team needs me to do,” – Amen Thompson
Thompson’s ambition extends beyond personal awards. He wants to reach for the stars.
“I want to be an All-Star. I want to be an All-Defensive Team player. I have big goals, but at the same time my biggest goal is to win a championship,” – Amen Thompson
As he continues to develop his skills and adapt to his newfound responsibilities, Thompson remains focused on achieving both personal and team success.
Alongside Thompson’s journey, ESPN’s Marc J. Spears shone a light on the positive team culture among Thompson and his future NBA rookie teammates.
“We have two of the top 15 players [Durant and Sengun]. We have great defenders. We have dudes who want to go to war for one another,” – Marc J. Spears
Spears emphasized the enormous difference makers that players like Thompson can be for their respective teams. He emphasized their key positions in the play, both on offense and defense.
“And when they did that, they became the most impactful players on the court pretty much every game I’ve seen them play in before making it to the NBA. Then in the NBA, they’ve basically been a battery for both teams to make guys play harder and boost defenses drastically,” – Marc J. Spears
Thompson’s journey as a young player stepping into such a crucial role is one characterized by grit and perseverance. And yet, the Houston Rockets have put a lot of faith in him as he learns to steer through this make or break chapter of his career. Amen Thompson’s ceiling is that of an elite player in the league. He is poised to enact a long term, synergistic effect on both sides of the ball.
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