I am ready for it, and I am just going to fight,” Rockets center Alperen Sengun says of physical play from opponents like Cleveland’s Jarrett Allen.

The NBA announced its 2025 All-Star Game starters on Thursday, and the Rockets weren’t represented. But led by Alperen Sengun, they did receive votes.

Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun is in his fourth season in the league, and he's beginning to establish himself. While many compare him to Sacramento Kings

Michael Shapiro is a sports reporter for Chron, covering the Astros, Rockets, Texans and every team in town. Michael is a Denver native and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, and a noted fan of pull-up threes, wide-receiver passes and a good hot fudge sundae.

Alperen Sengun made an injury admission that would concern Rockets fans following their escape act vs. the Cavs.

Alperen Sengun on how and why he’s taken an All-Star leap in Houston: “Opportunity, and Ime (Udoka) believing in me. That was the biggest reason.”

Jalen Green scored 34 points, Alperen Sengun had 20 points, nine rebounds and eight assists and the Houston Rockets beat the short-handed Denver Nuggets 128-108.

Sengun is averaging a robust 19.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, but on just 49% shooting from the floor and 22.6% from long range.