Amen Thompson Expected on NBA All-Defensive First Team

Houston Rockets guard/forward Amen Thompson has rapidly emerged as a defensive force in his second NBA season, finishing fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting and positioning himself as a likely All-Defensive First Team selection. Thompson's versatility, athleticism, and ability to play multiple positions have been instrumental in the Rockets' strong regular season, where he moved from a sixth-man role to a starter and contributed across the stat sheet. While his impact in Game 2 of the playoffs against Golden State was muted offensively, his defensive prowess has been critical throughout the season, with teammates and coaches emphasizing his importance in high-stakes matchups. The Rockets have sometimes struggled to maximize his usage compared to other key players, but there is a consensus that increasing his involvement could bolster their playoff prospects. Both Amen and his twin brother, Ausar, are making history as top-five picks and emerging as foundational pieces for their respective franchises. Their competitive upbringing and family support have been central to their rapid ascent in the NBA.