Alperen Sengun Reflects on Controversial Rockets-Warriors Playoffs

Houston Rockets big man Alperen Sengun is presently focused on his mission with Türkiye at the Eurobasket, but the intense and controversial first-round playoffs against the Golden State Warriors remain fresh in his mind. The Rockets fell to the Warriors in seven thrilling games, and Sengun has expressed his thoughts on the series.

“They’re a super experienced team who also commit many fouls,” Sengun explained to Turkish magazine Socrates. “The fouls weren’t called as much in the playoffs. They complained a lot about uncalled fouls, yet we couldn’t say anything because that’s not how we play.”

Reflecting on Kerr’s outbursts during the series, Sengun added, “Each game was a story. There was even a game where Steve Kerr got very angry. We always argued with them.

Warriors’ Hard Defense and Kevin Durant’s Arrival

One particular issue was the hard defense played by the Warriors, with Dillon Brooks’ physicality drawing criticism, even injuring Stephen Curry’s finger. The trade that sent Brooks to the Phoenix Suns, meanwhile, brought Kevin Durant to the Rockets, setting the stage for intense regular-season duels and potential playoffs between the two teams.

Did Sengun Think the Fouls Were Unfair?

“They complained a lot about uncalled fouls, yet we couldn’t say anything because that’s not how we play.”

Sengun didn’t explicitly say the foul calls were unfair but suggested that the Warriors’ complaints were hypocritical given their own physical play.

Takeaway

EuroBasket may currently occupy Sengun’s mind, but the unforgiving nature of the Warriors’ series still lingers. As the Rockets look ahead to the next season and their matchups against Golden State, Sengun’s thoughts offer a glimpse into what could be another intense chapter in their rivalry.

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