Rockets Coach Compares Rising Star Reed Sheppard to Spurs Legend Manu Ginobili

Ime Udoka sees similarities between the second-year guard and the four-time NBA champion

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In a recent interview, Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka praised second-year guard Reed Sheppard, comparing his versatile skill set and ability to provide an offensive spark off the bench to NBA Hall of Famer Manu Ginobili. Udoka highlighted Sheppard's point guard skills and willingness to accept any role, noting the importance of balancing the team's offensive and defensive needs with Sheppard's emergence as a key contributor.

Why it matters

Udoka's high-profile comparison of Sheppard to Ginobili, a four-time NBA champion and Spurs legend, underscores the rising young player's potential and the Rockets' faith in his development. As the team navigates injuries to key players like Fred VanVleet, Sheppard's ability to step up in a variety of roles will be crucial to the Rockets' success this season.

The details

Sheppard, the Rockets' third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, struggled to find consistent playing time as a rookie but has emerged as a valuable contributor in his second season. With VanVleet sidelined due to an ACL tear, Sheppard has been used as a microwave scorer off the bench and has also seen some reps as the team's primary ball-handler, showcasing his point guard skills. Udoka praised Sheppard's willingness to accept any role and highlighted the importance of balancing the team's offensive and defensive needs with Sheppard's presence on the floor.

  • Sheppard was the Rockets' third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
  • Sheppard is in his second NBA season.

The players

Reed Sheppard

A second-year guard for the Houston Rockets, selected third overall in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Ime Udoka

The head coach of the Houston Rockets, known for his player development and defensive-minded approach.

Manu Ginobili

A Hall of Fame NBA player who won four championships with the San Antonio Spurs, known for his versatility and ability to provide an offensive spark off the bench.

Fred VanVleet

A key player for the Rockets who suffered an ACL tear, opening up more playing time for Sheppard.

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What they’re saying

“People see the scoring and highlight plays and kind of get fixated with that, but there's a balance to a team. Whether you're looking at it from a defensive standpoint, with the starting lineup or offensive standpoint. You lose certain things with Fred being out and Dillon being gone.”

— Ime Udoka, Head Coach, Houston Rockets (SportsTalk 790)

“I take it to a guy like Manu Ginobili, who I've been around, played with, coached. Whether it's Jamal Crawford, Lou Williams, all those guys are valuable for that specific reason.”

— Ime Udoka, Head Coach, Houston Rockets (SportsTalk 790)

What’s next

The Rockets will continue to monitor Sheppard's development and find ways to maximize his impact, both as a scorer and facilitator, as they navigate the absence of VanVleet and aim to remain competitive in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

Udoka's comparison of Sheppard to Ginobili, a Hall of Famer known for his versatility and ability to provide an offensive spark off the bench, speaks to the Rockets' belief in the young guard's potential. As Sheppard continues to grow and adapt to the NBA game, his willingness to accept any role and contribute in multiple ways will be crucial to the team's success.