Rockets' Alperen Sengun Earns Second Straight All-Star Selection

Analyst Ryan Hollins explains why Sengun deserves the honor despite initial snub

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Alperen Sengun, the young star center for the Houston Rockets, has been named to his second consecutive NBA All-Star team. Despite initial doubts from some fans, Rockets play-by-play analyst Ryan Hollins praised Sengun's elite big man skills and ability to excel even when double-teamed by opponents.

Why it matters

Sengun's All-Star selection is a testament to his rapid development into one of the league's premier young talents. At just 22 years old, he has become a cornerstone for the rebuilding Rockets and his continued growth will be crucial to the team's future success.

The details

Sengun, who was not viewed as an immediate starter when drafted by the Rockets in 2021, has improved his stats in each of his first three NBA seasons. This year, he is averaging career-highs of 20.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game. Hollins highlighted Sengun's elite passing ability for a big man and noted that he is often double-teamed by opponents, making his production even more impressive.

  • Sengun was initially snubbed from the 2023 NBA All-Star team, but was later named as an injury replacement.
  • This is Sengun's second consecutive All-Star selection.

The players

Alperen Sengun

The 22-year-old center for the Houston Rockets, who has developed into one of the league's premier young talents.

Ryan Hollins

The play-by-play analyst for the Houston Rockets, who praised Sengun's elite skills and ability to excel even when double-teamed.

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What they’re saying

“Don't see him night in and night out. He gets double-teamed by every team in the entire Association. And when he's not double-teamed, he goes to work.”

— Ryan Hollins, Rockets Play-by-Play Analyst (SI.com)

“I can't tell you how hard it is to be an All-Star consecutively. So hats off to Alperen Sengun.”

— Ryan Hollins, Rockets Play-by-Play Analyst (SI.com)

What’s next

Sengun will look to continue his strong play and lead the Rockets to more success as they build towards the future. His second All-Star selection is a significant milestone in his young career.

The takeaway

Alperen Sengun's rapid rise to NBA stardom is a testament to his elite skills and work ethic. Despite initial doubts, he has proven himself to be one of the league's premier young big men and a key piece of the Rockets' rebuilding efforts.