Steven Adams, a seasoned veteran in the NBA, has seen his fair share of elite big men during his career. His recent comments about Alperen Sengun’s footwork, likening it to that of Kung Fu Panda, highlight the unique challenges defenders face when trying to guard Sengun. On the Young Man and Three podcast, Adams detailed how challenging it can be to predict Sengun’s movement on the court.
“He moves like Kung Fu Panda almost,” Adams explained. “For me, personally, my own joint is that naturally his movement patterns are very bizarre. So it’s hard to time these things. He’ll throw up a shot that you don’t think should be there, but it’s there. And it’s a good shot for him.”
Sengun’s unpredictable style has been a key factor in his impressive performance this season, making him a strong contender for an All-Star selection. Currently, he is averaging 23.5 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists while maintaining a 50% shooting accuracy from the field and 35.1% from the three-point line. His ability to act as a playmaking hub has transformed Houston’s offense, with the team often running plays through him.
Adding to his effectiveness is his newfound chemistry with Kevin Durant, which has developed quickly and unexpectedly. Together, they form a dynamic duo that keeps defenders on their toes. Sengun’s court vision and unselfish play align well with Durant’s scoring capabilities, leading to easy offensive opportunities when teams overcommit.
This synergy is a significant reason behind the Houston Rockets’ strong start, boasting a 16-7 record and sitting fifth in the Western Conference. They are currently just one game behind the Denver Nuggets for second place and are demonstrating the potential to be serious contenders in the league.
Sengun’s emergence is also a factor in Durant’s decision to join the Rockets. The young core, anchored by Sengun, supported by the speed and defense of Amen Thompson, and the length and shooting of Jabari Smith Jr., shows promise for future success. This combination of talent allows the team to play with confidence and creativity, particularly as Sengun’s movements open up the floor and create scoring opportunities.
Adams, who has closely observed Sengun’s development as his backup over the past two seasons, acknowledges the significance of this growth. His playful comparison of Sengun to Kung Fu Panda reflects an appreciation for the finesse and control the young player exhibits on the court. It serves as a testament to Sengun’s skill set, which can seem whimsical but ultimately translates into effective play against tough competition.