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Durant: Rockets limited Wembanyama, urges Spurs' Şengün to shoot more
21 Jan
Summary
- Kevin Durant explained Rockets' defensive strategy against Wembanyama.
- Durant advised Spurs' Şengün to be more aggressive shooting threes.
- Wembanyama scored 14 points on 5-of-21 shooting, missing all seven threes.
Kevin Durant offered insights into the Houston Rockets' defensive strategy that stifled rookie Victor Wembanyama during their recent 111-106 win against the San Antonio Spurs. Durant explained that the Rockets focused on forcing Wembanyama into difficult, contested jump shots rather than allowing him to attack the rim.
"We made him take contested shots," Durant stated. He elaborated that Wembanyama is most effective near the basket and that forcing him into perimeter play disrupted his rhythm and led to missed shots. This defensive pressure, coupled with getting Wembanyama into foul trouble, allowed the Rockets to capitalize and secure the victory.
Beyond the defensive scheme against Wembanyama, Durant also encouraged his teammates, particularly Alperen Şengün, to be more aggressive in taking three-point shots. He stressed the importance of shooting with confidence when open, believing that increased attempts from players like Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Şengün could bolster the team's offensive output.
