In a column exploring first-time All-Star possibilities in 2026, Steve Aschburner of NBA.com lists Amen Thompson as a candidate from the Rockets.
Rockets center Alperen Sengun was a first-time All-Star in the NBA’s 2024-25 season, and he was Houston’s first selection since James Harden and Russell Westbrook in the 2019-20 campaign.
Should Sengun return in 2025-26, he’s likely to have internal company in the form of newly acquired star Kevin Durant, a 15-time NBA All-Star.
But it’s plausible that Houston might have as many as three All-Stars.
In a new column breaking down potential 2026 All-Star debuts, Steve Aschburner of NBA.com lists Amen Thompson as a candidate from the Rockets.
He also lists Ausar Thompson, Amen’s twin brother with the Detroit Pistons. Aschburner’s explanation:
The athletic ability of these (Thompson) twins is off the charts, so if either develops a more reliable offensive package, he could accompany an All-Star teammate. Amen already played on All-Star Sunday via the roundabout mini-tournament last year that included a Rising Stars unit. But we’re talking about the big game — one that twins Dick and Tom Van Arsdale reached together in 1970 and 1971.
In short, both Thompson twins already play at an All-Star level defensively, so it comes down to their ability to level up on offense.
Fortunately for the Rockets, their Thompson could have more upside there, particularly when considering his burgeoning point-guard skills.
It’s also worth noting that Houston’s Thompson improved his 3-point shooting from 13.8% as a rookie to 27.5% as a sophomore, and on slightly higher volume.
While there is still a ways to go for that to reach a satisfactory level, it does represent progress as Thompson enters his third NBA season in 2025-26. Should that continue, particularly when combined with defensive excellence and improved playmaking skills, an All-Star push is quite realistic.