As a rookie, Amen Thompson initially struggled with his head coach Ime Udoka’s intense critiques but has since come to appreciate the high standards set for him. Udoka, now in his second year with the Rockets, emphasizes developing Thompson’s skills by pushing him out of his comfort zone, transitioning him from playing on the ball to learning off-ball roles. As Thompson continues to grow, Udoka draws comparisons between him and Kyrie Irving, noting his impressive defensive capabilities and potential as a budding star in Houston.



