Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun is actively working to expand his offensive versatility beyond the paint ahead of the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season by transforming his perimeter shooting. Known as one of Europe’s finest modern bigs, the 24-year-old Turkish national team star is focusing heavily on the psychological elements of spacing the floor from the corner, working closely with shooting coach Chip Engelland.
Sengun’s Evolution Beyond the Paint
Following a team practice session, Alperen Sengun opened up about his development and a desire to expand his offensive game. While recognized as an elite interior presence, the young center holds a sub-30% career three-point average. Unlocking this new dimension on the perimeter requires a complete shift in mindset, according to the player.
“Probably corner threes,” Sengun noted regarding his targets on the floor. “That’s what coach and others want too, and I want to get better. Just to space out and give some space to my teammates.”
Mental Approach and Partnership with Chip Engelland
To reach his shooting goals, Sengun is putting considerable effort into the psychological side of his shot development alongside shooting coach Chip Engelland. When asked if he could hit a 40% ceiling from beyond the arc this season, Sengun offered a balanced smile and answered, “We’ll see,” acknowledging both the high expectations and the mountain of work ahead.
“Just feeling confident, getting a bunch of reps, and not thinking about it,” Sengun admitted. “I have said it before, it’s all mental for me. I feel good when I shoot it, but in the game, I kind of feel like I’m rushing a little more. But I’m working on that right now.”
Sengun praised his work with the coaching staff member, stating, “He’s amazing. He’s a genius. You can already see it. Putting little details in a couple of the stuff that I need to get improved and Chip is really good at it. Watching a lot of clips, telling me all the details, taking videos.”
Did You Know?
Alperen Sengun is just 24 years old and has already established himself as a prominent international star for the Turkish national team before heading into the upcoming NBA campaign.
Upcoming Rockets Schedule
Before the games count in the standings, the Rockets travel to Macao for two preseason matchups against the Dallas Mavericks. Following those international contests, Houston returns home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The team officially tips off their Regular Season at the Toyota Center against the Dallas Mavericks on October 21.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alperen Sengun’s primary focus for the 2026–27 season?
Sengun is focusing on expanding his offensive versatility by improving his perimeter shooting, specifically targeting corner threes to space the floor for his teammates.
Who is helping Sengun improve his jump shot?
Sengun is working closely with shooting coach Chip Engelland, whom he described as a genius for helping him refine the small details of his shooting mechanics through video review and repetition.
When does the Houston Rockets’ regular season begin?
The Rockets tip off their regular season at the Toyota Center against the Dallas Mavericks on October 21.
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