With an impressive 5-1 record and a runner-up finish at the NBA's 2023 summer league in Las Vegas, the Houston Rockets showcased their promising talent and the potential for a successful rebuild.
Rookie forward Cam Whitmore, selected as the No. 20 overall pick in the 2023 first round, proved to be a standout performer. Whitmore's dazzling skills on the court led him to average 19.3 points (44.7% FG), 5.2 rebounds, 2.5 steals, and 31 minutes per game. The 19-year-old's athleticism and remarkable performance in all six summer contests earned him the well-deserved title of MVP.
However, Whitmore faced stiff competition for the MVP award from some of his highly acclaimed teammates who unfortunately couldn't stay on the court for long.
In the two games before being sidelined, second-year forward Jabari Smith Jr., chosen as the No. 3 pick in the 2022 draft, displayed his scoring prowess by averaging an impressive 35.5 points (48.8% FG, 33.3% on 3-pointers), along with 7 rebounds and 4 assists in 32.2 minutes per game.
Another second-year forward, Tari Eason, picked at No. 17 in the 2022 draft, also made a significant impact. Eason's contributions included averaging 23 points (48.7% FG, 36.4% on 3-pointers), 9.5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the two games before being sidelined alongside Smith.
Adding to the Rockets' impressive talent pool, rookie point guard Amen Thompson, chosen as the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, showcased his skills in his lone summer appearance. Thompson recorded 16 points (46.2% FG, 1-of-1 on 3-pointers), 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 3 steals before leaving the game with a sprained left ankle.
The Houston Rockets' performance in the summer league not only highlighted Cam Whitmore's exceptional abilities but also showcased the immense potential of their young stars. With such promising talent on their roster, the Rockets are undoubtedly a team to watch as they continue their rebuilding journey.
