With the second overall pick in the NBA draft, the Houston Rockets selected Jalen Green from the NBA G League Ignite, becoming the first player to be taken from the program.
Green entered draft night as the favorite to land with the Rockets, and the 19-year-old will now join a roster on the rise with John Wall, Christian Wood and Kevin Porter Jr. among others. He praised the Rockets’ system earlier this week, and believed his potential would work well.
The 6-foot-6 guard is highly touted for his scoring ability, and many believe he could develop into a superstar in the NBA. Houston was reportedly also considering USC center Evan Mobley but ultimately believed Green and his potential was the right move.
With the 2nd pick of the @NBADraft, the @HoustonRockets select @JalenGreen from the @NBAGleague Ignite!
2021 #NBADraft presented by State Farm on ABC & ESPN pic.twitter.com/Sdr8AfPwkf
— NBA (@NBA) July 30, 2021
Green averaged 17.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 assists in 15 games last season to lead the NBA G League Ignite in their inaugural season. He produced his best game of the season in the playoffs: 30 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds in a loss to the Raptors 905.
The addition of Green gives the Rockets a cornerstone player they can build around. He has drawn comparisons to younger versions of Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady, and if he can tap into even some of that potential, the Rockets could have an All-Star for years to come.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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