Former Kentucky basketball star, and current Houston Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard picked up right where he left off when he began his NBA career on Friday night. Taking on the Los Angeles Lakers, he showed exactly the same type of play that made him the number three overall pick in the NBA draft.
On the night, Sheppard filled up the stat sheet, just like he did for the Wildcats. The rookie guard led the Rockets in scoring, with 23 points on 9-of-17 shooting. He was also 4-of-6 from three-point range.
Related: NBA Summer League loaded with former Wildcats
Just as he did at Kentucky, Sheppard contributed in every other way as well. In addition to the scoring, he recorded five assists, four rebounds, three blocks, and a steal. Overall, he played like a top five draft pick.
The Rockets play again Sunday, this time against the Washington Wizards. Big Blue Nation is certain to be proud of Sheppard’s debut, and will be excited to see what he does in game two.