Alperen Sengun didn’t just help the Houston Rockets grab a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves - he put his fingerprints all over a gritty, highlight-filled 110-105 victory. The 23-year-old center, still working his way back from a right ankle sprain, looked every bit the All-Star-caliber player the Rockets rely on. He dropped 25 points, pulled down 14 rebounds, and added three assists in a game that showcased both his skill and his flair for the dramatic.
But let’s be honest - the box score only tells part of the story. Sengun had one moment in the fourth quarter that had fans, teammates, and even social media buzzing.
With Houston clinging to a narrow lead and Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert - a four-time Defensive Player of the Year - patrolling the paint, Sengun pulled off a fake pass so slick it left Gobert spinning. Literally.
Gobert lost track of the ball entirely, turning his head as Sengun calmly knocked down the shot. Then came the cherry on top: Sengun hit him with the “too small” gesture, a move that instantly went viral and perfectly captured the swagger he brings to the floor.
This wasn’t just a flash of brilliance - it was a continuation of Sengun’s growing dominance, especially in matchups against elite defenders like Gobert. He’s not just holding his own against the league’s best; he’s outsmarting them. That kind of confidence and creativity is rare in young big men, and it’s a big reason why Houston has surged to a 24-15 record.
Sengun’s return to the lineup this week has already paid dividends. After missing four games - three of which ended in losses - he came back against the Chicago Bulls and immediately made an impact.
Despite still dealing with that ankle injury, he racked up 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 11 assists in a much-needed win that snapped the Rockets’ three-game skid. That performance was a reminder of just how central he is to everything Houston does.
And while he admitted he’s “still not 100 percent,” Sengun made it clear he’s not letting that slow him down. “When I’m out there, I don’t feel anything.
I just feel the game, and try to win. Whatever it takes, I’ll go for it,” he said after the game.
That mindset - playing through pain, trusting his instincts, and elevating his team - is exactly what’s made Sengun one of the most compelling young stars in the NBA right now. Head coach Ime Udoka’s full availability remains uncertain, but one thing is crystal clear: when Sengun is on the court, the Rockets look like a different team.
A better team. A team that believes it can hang with anyone.
And if moments like that Gobert fake are any indication, Sengun’s not just back - he’s ready to make some noise.