For the second time in as many games, rookie Reed Sheppard put up a sensational performance to help lead the Houston Rockets to a win on Sunday in the NBA Summer League.
Sheppard produced 22 points, seven assists, six rebounds, five steals and one blocked shot in a 109-91 win over the Washington Wizards in Las Vegas, Nevada. He went 9-of-15 from the field, including 1-of-5 from 3-point range, in 32 minutes.
The third pick dazzled those on hand watching at the Thomas & Mack Center and even those watching elsewhere. The performance earned a shout-out from three-time All-Star Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Reed Sheppard nice y’all !!
— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) July 14, 2024
Sheppard once again got to his spots well to knock down open shots on the court. He was active in the passing lanes to pick off five passes, which helped lead fastbreak opportunities for the Rockets (2-0), who held a 26-17 advantage in that department.
The 20-year-old debuted with the Rockets on Friday in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers, recording 23 points, five assists, four rebounds, three blocked shots and one steal. He went 9-of-17 from the field, including 4-of-6 from 3-point range, in 30 minutes.
Sheppard has looked to be the best rookie on the court through two games and is proving himself as a high draft pick. With at least three games left to play, Sheppard will have the chance to continue to adjust to the increased competition level and impress in the desert.
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