Amen Thompson

Leave it to Amen Thompson to construct one of his young career’s best three-level scoring showcases, conclude a walk-off interview by vowing to score from range more often, and somehow, still have his most-discussed highlight arrive through an at-the-rim throwdown. Rightfully nicknamed “The Energizer Bunny,” the Houston Rockets’ second-year swingman hops into action promptly, collecting a rebound before putting transition pressure on Kevin Porter Jr. with an in-and-out crossover that, seemingly, leaves him well-positioned for a contested layup. Desiring something more — with the generational athleticism needed to attain it — Thompson finishes his gather before vaulting into an eyebrow-raising one-handed contact flush. December 8, 2024 was that kind of night for Houston’s highflyer, as he pioneered the shorthanded Rockets to a road victory over the L.A. Clippers. The box score oversaw 22 points (on 9-of-14 shooting, including four outside-the-paint field goals), eight rebounds, four assists, one steal, one block, one 3-pointer, and a +10 plus-minus. Admiring his work, it left Thompson with only one question to ask the viewers at home: “You all saw that, right?”