Joel Embiid and Jokic brought centers back into style, and Houston could now revive the two-big lineup, as the 12-year NBA veteran Steven Adams will spend plenty of time on the floor next to Sengun. The New Zealand center is a perfect complement to the Turkish superstar, doing all the dirty work to allow Sengun's skill set to shine even brighter.

The Houston Rockets and the Oklahoma City Thunder put together a memorable opening night. NBA fans got a glimpse of what Alperen Sengun is bringing to the table

It wasn’t just an opening night, but a statement. Alperen Sengun’s record-breaking performance in the Houston Rockets’ 125–124 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder was one for the history books.

Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi break down how the Houston Rockets' roster looks after their season-opening loss to the Thunder, and how Alperen Sengun is 'on the cusp' of being a top NBA center.

The Rockets also had a chance at the end of regulation to win the game, but Alperen Sengun's off-balance shot fell off the rim. The Rockets actually led for most of the game but couldn't come up with the big plays in the clutch to pull out the victory.

The Houston Rockets got a sweet shooting addition to their front court to open up their offense in the new season. But it wasn't the one they expected in Tuesday's 125-124 2OT loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Rockets will begin the 2025-26 NBA season with one of the tallest lineups in league history against the Thunder.

Alperen Sengun electrified the crowd with a smooth jumper that prompted Kevin Durant to have an over-the-top reaction.

Target Alperen Sengun, Al Horford & Brandin Podziemski for NBA Opening Night player prop picks & best bets for Tuesday, October 21.

Alpi seems to be more aggressive (defensively) when he has another big guy behind him,” Ime Udoka says of Rockets center Alperen Sengun.

Houston could be elite as a whole this season, but even its best players couldn't crack the preseason MVP ladder.