The Houston Rockets might have clinched a rising star in the world of the NBA. Their fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft surely earned compliments after his debut. If you’ve already guessed Amen Thompson’s name, then pat yourselves. The 21-year-old rookie from California has had a pretty impressive start to his career. Besides, Amen’s high school records foretold his greatness. So, what’s the story?

ESPN tagged Amen Thompson as a five-star recruit after his impressive performance at Pine Crest School, where he led the team to a title and gained fame. He later bypassed his senior year to join OTE, played two seasons, won a league title, and earned All-OTE First Team honors in 2023. As you can see, Amen Thompson has been a player of impact and impression. He has glory smeared all over his career so far. Interestingly, the Houston Rockets might have even better news to ponder about. The already super-tall Amen, might have gained a few inches over the offseason. Is this great news? Absolutely. It’s always, “the taller the better”  in the NBA!

Has Amen Thompson grown taller heading into the 2024-25 NBA season?

By the end of the 2023-24 NBA season, Amen Thompson was among the rookies who positively impacted their team. He ranked third among rookies in estimated-plus minus (EPM), behind Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. Thomson was one of six rookies in the 70th percentile or higher. These stats give a glimpse into the 21-year-old’s future, given that consistency is maintained (minus the injuries). But currently, more than his records, Amen Thompson’s height has become a hot topic of conversation among basketball fans.

The Editor of USA Today’s ‘The Rockets Wire’, who, as you can guess, looks after all things Houston Rockets shared a clip on his X handle. The stars of the Rockets accompanied by their head coach Ime Udoka attended a community event recently. During a candid conversation, Udoka talked about how Amen Thompson looked physically different. So, in response to this statement, the small forward said: “Just getting stronger and faster. A lot of growth this summer and I feel like that’s translating to the court.” However, some people believe he’s grown taller. Did Amen truly grow tall? “People keep telling me that. I hope so. I’m gonna start saying I’m 6’8″.” The response was sweet, to be honest.

Amen Thompson’s original height is 2.01m, which is 6′ 7″. But as per the latest claims of the fans, he might have just increased an inch. This will in turn help him in his game, which is the ultimate target. Moreover, having the tag of one of the best athletes as a rookie, Amen’s morale is soaring high. This season he has to be stronger and faster than before to retain his title as the best player. Even his twin brother Ausar Thompson is contributing to the Detriot Pistons. Both siblings might be taking over the NBA with their skills and might!

In addition to this title, Amen Thompson also played as a USA Select hat practiced against the USA Men’s Basketball team that competed in the Olympics. The youngster is already going miles in the sport. Who knows he might be the next big thing in the NBA in days to come.

Amen Thompson was picked to play for the USA Select team.

The best in the world players make it to the Olympics. After claiming 17 gold medals, the USA Men’s Basketball team is undoubtedly the best in the world. Moreover, five consecutive gold medals is another out-of-the-world achievement. Meanwhile, it’s hard to even fathom how strenuous the training might be to build the champions. But have you ever wondered how the practice sessions go? Well, as it seems there is a special USA Select team that plays against the main team to prepare them for the Games.

Surprisingly, Amen Thompson made it through the trials quite easily and became a member of the Select team. Along with Jabari Smith Jr, he created the perfect defensive side to make the training more interesting. It’s not difficult to guess why many have called Amen Thompson the perfect defensive playmaker. His ability to stop iconic hoopers like Kevin Durant and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is commendable. With an average of 12.5PPG, Thompson has been mesmerizing the fans since his debut. The USA Select team episode adds the cherry to the cake. The managing director of USA Basketball, Grant Hill commented: “There is a tremendous amount of talent on this Select squad with the significant job of helping the 2024 national team as they begin their journey to the Olympics.”

It is a given that the Select Team members would carry forward the legacy of LeBron James and Steph Curry in the next Olympic Games. Moreover, what makes Amen Thompson special is his defensive skills. Although some experts have pointed out that he could elevate his gameplay with better handling, nonetheless, the 21-year-old has been a sheer joy to watch. The lateral quickness is probably top 5 in the NBA, and his ability to quickly get off the ground to block shots is probably top 5 in the NBA as well. Just an ethereal athlete!

The Houston Rockets have indeed picked up a real gem from the trade market. As of now, he’ll be playing for the team until 2025 for $40M approx. But as time passes by, Amen Thompson’s evaluation will increase undoubtedly. The skills he brings to the table are rare, thus a player like him is priceless; an asset for any team.