Since being drafted as the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jalen Green has been recognized for his incredible scoring ability and electrifying athleticism. However, as his Houston Rockets struggled during his early seasons, it became clear that for Green to reach his full potential—and for the Rockets to emerge as true contenders—his game needed to evolve beyond scoring.
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Under the guidance of head coach Ime Udoka, Green has embraced a broader role, emphasizing defense, playmaking, and efficient decision-making. As Houston continues to surprise the league this season with their strong record and deep playoff aspirations, Green’s transformation has been at the center of their resurgence.
A Scorer by Nature
Green entered the league as a pure scorer, earning his reputation with the G League Ignite before the Rockets selected him in 2021. Standing at 6-foot-4 with lightning-quick first steps and ferocious dunks, Green averaged 17.3 points per game as a rookie. By his second year, that average jumped to a career-high 22.1 points per game, though his efficiency lagged at just 41.7% shooting from the field.
While his ability to score in bursts dazzled fans, Green often took questionable shots and lacked consistency. The Rockets’ struggles during these seasons underscored the need for a more complete team identity—and for Green to expand his contributions beyond the scoring column.
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Udoka’s Challenge: Becoming a Two-Way Player
Ime Udoka’s arrival as head coach in 2023 marked a turning point. Having previously led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2022, Udoka brought a focus on discipline, defense, and team play to Houston. He quickly identified areas where Green needed to improve, particularly in defensive effort and shot selection.
“Jalen had a reputation as a natural scorer, but to become a truly great player, you have to impact the game in multiple ways,” Udoka said. “For someone with his athleticism and quickness, there’s no reason he can’t be an elite defender.”
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Udoka’s coaching philosophy is straightforward: use Green’s physical gifts to dominate on both ends of the floor. Green’s ability to read defenses, distribute the ball, and defend one-on-one matchups has been central to this transformation.
A Shift in the Rockets’ Identity
The Rockets’ offseason acquisitions in 2023 reinforced Udoka’s message. The team added veteran leadership with 2022 NBA All-Star Fred VanVleet, defensive specialist Dillon Brooks, and 17-year veteran Jeff Green. These seasoned players have not only contributed on the court but also mentored Green in critical areas like decision-making and leadership.
“Fred and Dillon helped me see the game differently,” Green said. “They’ve taught me how to stay aggressive while making smarter decisions. It’s about bringing intensity every night, whether I’m scoring or not.”
The results of this shift were apparent during the 2023-24 season. Although Green’s scoring average dipped to 19.6 points per game, his improved defense and playmaking helped the Rockets finish at .500 (41-41) for the first time in four years.
From Flashy Scorer to Defensive Leader
This season, Green has taken another leap forward. His defensive rating has improved dramatically, from 122.5 in the 2022-23 season to a career-best 107 so far this year. Udoka credits Green’s growing toughness and competitiveness for this transformation.
“Jalen has embraced the challenge,” Udoka said. “He’s no longer a guy that teams can target on defense. He’s guarding one-on-one effectively, and his reads on both ends of the court have become sharper.”
Green’s highlight-reel athleticism is still a significant part of his game, but now it complements a more well-rounded approach. He’s averaging a career-high 1.2 steals per game and making smarter offensive decisions. Gone are the days of forcing contested shots over multiple defenders; instead, Green is distributing to open teammates and attacking the basket with precision.
Making a Statement in the NBA Cup
Green’s growth was on full display during a pivotal moment in the NBA Cup quarterfinals against the Golden State Warriors. With the Rockets trailing by one point and just 3.5 seconds remaining, Green made a game-winning play—not with a flashy dunk, but with a defensive steal and clutch free throws.
“That moment wasn’t just about scoring,” Green said. “It was about impacting the game however I could.”
The Rockets’ advancement to the NBA Cup semifinals highlights their transformation as a team—and Green’s evolution as a leader. Heading into their matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston boasts the second-best record in the Western Conference (17-8) and a newfound confidence.
“We’re proving people wrong,” Green said. “We know we’re young, but we’ve got heart, talent, and a deep roster. We’re all hungry to win.”
The Road Ahead
At just 22 years old, Green’s best basketball is still ahead of him. While his scoring averages have dipped slightly, his improved efficiency, defense, and leadership have elevated both his game and his team’s performance.
Udoka, who has coached Hall of Famers like Kobe Bryant and Manu Ginobili, sees similar potential in Green. “He has things you can’t teach—athleticism, quickness, and instincts. The key is developing the mentality to maximize those gifts, especially on defense.”
As the Rockets aim to solidify their place among the Western Conference’s elite, Green’s continued growth will be essential. His transformation from a one-dimensional scorer to a well-rounded player underscores his commitment to greatness—and his belief that the best is yet to come.
“People underestimate me,” Green said. “This is just the beginning. I’m still learning, still growing. One day, everything will come together.”
