Houston’s Alperen Sengun Earns All-Star Call as Injury Replacement

Houston Rockets fans just got a major reason to celebrate. Rising star Alperen Sengun has officially been tapped as the injury replacement for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the upcoming NBA All-Star Game. For a franchise hungry to return to the league’s spotlight, Sengun’s selection marks another milestone in his rapid ascent — and a proud moment for Houston.

The NBA announced the decision shortly after Gilgeous-Alexander was ruled out due to injury. Sengun, who has been one of the league’s most efficient and dynamic young big men, will now step onto basketball’s biggest midseason stage. For Rockets fans and the entire city of Houston, the nod validates what locals have known all season: Sengun is blossoming into a true franchise cornerstone.

Why Sengun Deserves This All-Star Spotlight

Sengun has put together a breakout season filled with highlights — crafty footwork, high-IQ passing, and nightly double-doubles. His evolution has helped drive Houston’s resurgence and has made him a fan favorite around the league. Coaches and analysts have praised his improved defense, leadership, and work ethic, citing him as one of the NBA's most impactful young centers.

Houston’s offense often runs through him, and his ability to blend old-school post moves with modern playmaking has drawn comparisons to some of the game's elite bigs. His All-Star selection now adds weight to the idea that the Rockets’ rebuilding era is turning a corner.

What This Means for Houston

The Rockets haven’t placed a player in an All-Star Game since the James Harden era, so Sengun’s selection carries both symbolic and practical importance. It signals league-wide respect and gives Houston’s rising core the recognition they’ve been working toward.

It also energizes a fan base that has rallied around the team’s youthful identity. With more national attention now shifting toward Houston, the timing couldn't be better as the Rockets push toward a competitive second half of the season.

What’s Next

Sengun will join the league’s brightest talents on All-Star Weekend, giving him the kind of exposure and experience that can elevate a young player's trajectory. Rockets fans will be watching closely to see how he performs on the big stage — and whether this moment becomes a launching pad for an even bigger leap.

This article is a summary of reporting by New Haven Register. Read the full story here.