Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka recently highlighted the increasing defensive attention Alperen Sengun receives on the court. Udoka revealed that Sengun faced double teams on 77% of his post-up possessions during the 2023-24 NBA season.
In a statement shared by Adam Spolane, Udoka said, “I think he’s the third most double-teamed person in the league, behind Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo.”
Sengun, now entering his fourth year in the league, had a breakout season in 2023-24. He averaged a career-high 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His production was essential for the Rockets, and his ability to draw multiple defenders made him a key player in their offensive system.
This recognition from Udoka places Sengun among the elite players in the NBA, as double-teaming is usually reserved for the most dominant scorers and playmakers. The fact that Sengun is double-teamed at such a high rate underscores his growing impact on the court.
By comparison, players like Embiid and Antetokounmpo are often double-teamed because of their ability to score in a variety of ways, whether in the post or attacking the basket. Sengun’s inclusion on this list highlights his versatility and threat level, even as a young player.
Despite the constant defensive pressure, Sengun remained efficient, converting nearly 54% of his field goal attempts. His ability to pass out of double teams also proved invaluable for the Rockets, allowing him to create opportunities for his teammates.
