Podcasts about head coach ime udoka

Seth and Sean see if John McClain, Lavar Ball or LeBron can dethrone Mad Dog in this week's Take-a-mania, discuss the Rockets being the betting favorite to be Kevin Durant's next team on the heels of them extending Head Coach Ime Udoka, react to the story of Adrian Peterson getting in a scuffle with his friend, and get the question of the day from Reggie and Lopez.

Seth and Sean discuss the Astros' loss last night to split the series with the A's, how incredible the rookie pitchers have been the past month, the Rockets extending Ime Udoka, if that increases the chances at the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, go through the day's Headlines, recap yesterday's Astros Circle of Trust, try to remember if coaches are allowed in, lay out some Astros angles to the Athletic's All Quarter Century team, discuss LeBron not getting ring culture but Charles Barkley understanding it, assess Sam Monson's take that CJ Stroud was actually more impressive last year than in his rookie season, break down which Astros are on the upswing and which are headed in the wrong direction according to Chandler Rome's article, discuss if Shedeur Sanders' speeding tickets are an issue, see if John McClain, Lavar Ball or LeBron can dethrone Mad Dog in this week's Take-a-mania, discuss the Rockets being the betting favorite to be Kevin Durant's next team on the heels of them extending Head Coach Ime Udoka, react to the story of Adrian Peterson getting in a scuffle with his friend, and get the question of the day from Reggie and Lopez.

Seth and Sean discuss the Rockets extending Head Coach Ime Udoka and if it makes it more likely for the team to land a trade for Kevin Durant.

HR1 - Braves sweeping Mets result of Atlanta finally clicking on all cylinders In hour one Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac recap and react to the Atlanta Braves beating the New York Mets 7-1 last night, and sweeping their three game series against the Mets. Mike, Beau, and Ali also explain how the Braves swept the Mets thanks to big hits in big moments and great pitching from their starters and the bullpen. Then, The Morning Shift crew takes their finalized top 20 Falcons most important players list and continues to rank the players. In this segment they pick which players belong in spots 10 through 6. Mike, Beau, and Ali also talk about the biggest local and national headlines in The Front Page! On this edition of The Front Page The Morning Shift crew recap and react to the Indiana Pacers forcing a game seven in the NBA Finals after a dominant 108-91 game six victory. Mike, Beau, and Ali also talk about how T. J. McConnell's spark off the bench is a big reason why the Pacers won game six.The Morning Shift crew also reacts to the Buss family selling the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter for a $10 billion-dollar valuation, and the Houston Rockets and Head Coach Ime Udoka agreeing to a long-term contract extension. Finally, Mark, Beau, and Ali close out hour one by diving into the life of Ali Mac in Ali's Mac Drop!

Head Coach Ime Udoka Joins The Show Giving The Rockets Perspective Before Game 6

Head Coach Ime Udoka Joins The Show Giving The Rockets Perspective Before Game 6

Even with Kevin Durant scoring 37 points, the Houston Rockets were able to rally late and secure a 119-111 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Amen Thompson recorded his fourth career triple-double, his second this month, with 18 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds. Phoenix, who were missing Devin Booker, entered the fourth quarter with an eight-point lead, but the Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun and Dillon Brooks, were able to regain control and pull away in the final minutes, taking advantage of Phoenix's 17 turnovers. "I think our activity was great," head coach Ime Udoka said. "They came up with a lot of steals." After a quiet first half due to the Suns' strong post defense, Sengun finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds to help the Rockets win a second straight. Sengun was named an NBA All-Star for the first time in his career and was selected for Charles Barkley's team in the mini-tournament. The 74th NBA All-Star Game will take place Sunday, but the Rockets have one more matchup before the break, hosting the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. "You want to lock in and finish on a good note," Udoka said.

Even with Kevin Durant scoring 37 points, the Houston Rockets were able to rally late and secure a 119-111 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Amen Thompson recorded his fourth career triple-double, his second this month, with 18 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds. Phoenix, who were missing Devin Booker, entered the fourth quarter with an eight-point lead, but the Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun and Dillon Brooks, were able to regain control and pull away in the final minutes, taking advantage of Phoenix's 17 turnovers. "I think our activity was great," head coach Ime Udoka said. "They came up with a lot of steals." After a quiet first half due to the Suns' strong post defense, Sengun finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds to help the Rockets win a second straight. Sengun was named an NBA All-Star for the first time in his career and was selected for Charles Barkley's team in the mini-tournament. The 74th NBA All-Star Game will take place Sunday, but the Rockets have one more matchup before the break, hosting the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. "You want to lock in and finish on a good note," Udoka said.

Houston is one of the best road teams in the league with 17 wins, but the Rockets have struggled recently, losing their last four on the road. Anthony Edwards handed the Rockets their latest defeat Thursday, recording 41 points, seven rebounds and six assists to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 127-114 victory. The Rockets began the fourth quarter with a six-point lead but were then outscored 35-16 over the final 12 minutes. "The scoring droughts in the fourth have hurt us," head coach Ime Udoka said. The Rockets are second in the NBA in rebounds per game, but the Timberwolves outrebounded Houston 47-39. "Defensively, we've slipped in a lot of areas, rebounding, guarding in transition. So when you're not scoring to the level that we need to be, you have to be even more stingy on the defensive end." Point guard Fred VanVleet suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter of February 2's loss to the Brooklyn Nets, and his return to the floor is undetermined. "[VanVleet] is maybe the most important player as a point guard to get us organized," Udoka said. "Experience is one thing, but the IQ that he has and the understanding of when to be aggressive, when to get guys shots, when to get guys into certain spots is definitely missing." The veteran guard has seen a dip in production, marking 14.6 points per game, which is his lowest in the last six seasons, but his leadership is vital to the Rockets' game plans. "Teams want to attack us certain ways or switch up matchups and schemes. He's really good at diagnosing those and getting us in the right sets," Udoka said. With VanVleet out, Reed Sheppard has been able to garner more playing time, recording 17 minutes against the Timberwolves. "[Sheppard] needs to continue to improve in the IQ department... It's a young guy in a different position. He didn't always play the point guard, played off-ball a lot, and now he's being asked to be a secondary handler." The NBA trade deadline passed Thursday afternoon with the Rockets making minor moves, including acquiring center Cody Zeller from the Atlanta Hawks and guard Jaden Springer from the Boston Celtics (the Rockets have waived Springer). "We have a lot of depth and a lot of growth that we've seen this year so far...We want to see who we are going forward in real pressure situations, playoff situations and meaningful games down the stretch," Udoka said.

Houston is one of the best road teams in the league with 17 wins, but the Rockets have struggled recently, losing their last four on the road. Anthony Edwards handed the Rockets their latest defeat Thursday, recording 41 points, seven rebounds and six assists to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 127-114 victory. The Rockets began the fourth quarter with a six-point lead but were then outscored 35-16 over the final 12 minutes. "The scoring droughts in the fourth have hurt us," head coach Ime Udoka said. The Rockets are second in the NBA in rebounds per game, but the Timberwolves outrebounded Houston 47-39. "Defensively, we've slipped in a lot of areas, rebounding, guarding in transition. So when you're not scoring to the level that we need to be, you have to be even more stingy on the defensive end." Point guard Fred VanVleet suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter of February 2's loss to the Brooklyn Nets, and his return to the floor is undetermined. "[VanVleet] is maybe the most important player as a point guard to get us organized," Udoka said. "Experience is one thing, but the IQ that he has and the understanding of when to be aggressive, when to get guys shots, when to get guys into certain spots is definitely missing." The veteran guard has seen a dip in production, marking 14.6 points per game, which is his lowest in the last six seasons, but his leadership is vital to the Rockets' game plans. "Teams want to attack us certain ways or switch up matchups and schemes. He's really good at diagnosing those and getting us in the right sets," Udoka said. With VanVleet out, Reed Sheppard has been able to garner more playing time, recording 17 minutes against the Timberwolves. "[Sheppard] needs to continue to improve in the IQ department... It's a young guy in a different position. He didn't always play the point guard, played off-ball a lot, and now he's being asked to be a secondary handler." The NBA trade deadline passed Thursday afternoon with the Rockets making minor moves, including acquiring center Cody Zeller from the Atlanta Hawks and guard Jaden Springer from the Boston Celtics (the Rockets have waived Springer). "We have a lot of depth and a lot of growth that we've seen this year so far...We want to see who we are going forward in real pressure situations, playoff situations and meaningful games down the stretch," Udoka said.

The Houston Rockets will host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night for a huge interconference matchup, as the Cavaliers sit atop the Eastern Conference with a 36-6 record. The Rockets are coming off Monday's 107-96 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Cade Cunningham recorded 32 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. While the Pistons committed 23 turnovers, they were able to force the Rockets into 17 turnovers and convert it into 19 points. "We felt like we woke up a little bit late, coming off the west coast trip, early game, all those things. Bottom line was they outplayed us, out-hustled us, were more aggressive, and that has rarely happened this year, so looking forward to getting back to who we are tonight," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Despite balanced scoring, the Rockets shot 39% and struggled from beyond the arc, making 11 of 39. "It was a rare off night for a lot of people. And then once our defense did settle down, we just didn't score at the rate that we needed to," Udoka said. The Rockets will look to return to the win column against a dominant Cavaliers team, led by Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. "They present a lot of challenges and have a lot of balance." With Cavaliers center Evan Mobley ruled out of Wednesday's game, Alperen Sengun has an opportunity to improve upon his latest offensive struggles. "We invite the double teams that he attracts to garner a bunch of free shots for everybody else. But when they do guard you one-on-one, go make them pay," Udoka said. After Wednesday's contest, the Rockets will begin a four-game road trip that includes a back-to-back following the rescheduling of a game against the Atlanta Hawks. "I don't mind the road schedule at all. I think it builds character and toughness. We've obviously done a much better job this year than last year," Udoka said. The Rockets are currently 14-7 in road games so far this season.

The Houston Rockets will host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night for a huge interconference matchup, as the Cavaliers sit atop the Eastern Conference with a 36-6 record. The Rockets are coming off Monday's 107-96 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Cade Cunningham recorded 32 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. While the Pistons committed 23 turnovers, they were able to force the Rockets into 17 turnovers and convert it into 19 points. "We felt like we woke up a little bit late, coming off the west coast trip, early game, all those things. Bottom line was they outplayed us, out-hustled us, were more aggressive, and that has rarely happened this year, so looking forward to getting back to who we are tonight," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Despite balanced scoring, the Rockets shot 39% and struggled from beyond the arc, making 11 of 39. "It was a rare off night for a lot of people. And then once our defense did settle down, we just didn't score at the rate that we needed to," Udoka said. The Rockets will look to return to the win column against a dominant Cavaliers team, led by Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. "They present a lot of challenges and have a lot of balance." With Cavaliers center Evan Mobley ruled out of Wednesday's game, Alperen Sengun has an opportunity to improve upon his latest offensive struggles. "We invite the double teams that he attracts to garner a bunch of free shots for everybody else. But when they do guard you one-on-one, go make them pay," Udoka said. After Wednesday's contest, the Rockets will begin a four-game road trip that includes a back-to-back following the rescheduling of a game against the Atlanta Hawks. "I don't mind the road schedule at all. I think it builds character and toughness. We've obviously done a much better job this year than last year," Udoka said. The Rockets are currently 14-7 in road games so far this season.

The Houston Rockets return to the Toyota Center on Thursday to host the New Orleans Pelicans in their first game back since being eliminated from the NBA Cup. The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Rockets 111-96 on Saturday. The Rockets and Thunder have two of the three best records in the Western Conference, so the semifinal matchup might have been a potential playoff preview. "It's good to have those high-pressure situations," head coach Ime Udoka said. "The pressure of win or go home" is good experience for the young core of the Rockets, who haven't played in those types of games since the NCAA Tournament. The Rockets have had four days off but will now host a Pelicans team dealing with multiple injuries, with Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, Jose Alvarado, Karlo Matkovic and Daniel Theis all ruled out. "This is a classic trap game with guys missing," Udoka said. However, the Rockets might be without Tari Eason, Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun, who are all listed as questionable. Rookie Reed Sheppard could return to the court after not playing any minutes the past two games. "We're not worried about Reed at all," Udoka said. "He's a young guy going through a lot of things right now," but "we want to get him back in the mix."

The Houston Rockets return to the Toyota Center on Thursday to host the New Orleans Pelicans in their first game back since being eliminated from the NBA Cup. The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Rockets 111-96 on Saturday. The Rockets and Thunder have two of the three best records in the Western Conference, so the semifinal matchup might have been a potential playoff preview. "It's good to have those high-pressure situations," head coach Ime Udoka said. "The pressure of win or go home" is good experience for the young core of the Rockets, who haven't played in those types of games since the NCAA Tournament. The Rockets have had four days off but will now host a Pelicans team dealing with multiple injuries, with Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, Jose Alvarado, Karlo Matkovic and Daniel Theis all ruled out. "This is a classic trap game with guys missing," Udoka said. However, the Rockets might be without Tari Eason, Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun, who are all listed as questionable. Rookie Reed Sheppard could return to the court after not playing any minutes the past two games. "We're not worried about Reed at all," Udoka said. "He's a young guy going through a lot of things right now," but "we want to get him back in the mix."

The Houston Rockets return to the Toyota Center to host the Golden State Warriors in a win-or-go-home matchup for the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup. The winner of the contest will travel to Las Vegas to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals Saturday. "Let's go get it done," head coach Ime Udoka said. "It's good to play in meaningful games." Rockets forward Tari Eason is returning to the lineup after missing two straight games in concussion protocol. The other half of the "Terror Twins," Amen Thompson, is coming off a 22-point performance in a 117-106 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Thompson is "such a great driver and slasher," Udoka said. "He doesn't have to be reliant on jump shots." The Warriors are on a 15-game win streak against the Rockets, including being 2-0 this season. The last time the Western Conference foes faced each other was December 5 in San Francisco, as the Warriors won 99-93. Golden State was missing starters Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, and Jonathan Kuminga recorded a career-high 33 points. However, both Curry and Green are available for Wednesday's matchup. "They do play very differently when Curry is back," Udoka said. Green serves as the leader for the Warriors' defense and draws comparisons to Dillon Brooks in the sense of getting under the skin of the opponent. "Use it as motivation, and don't back down and shy away from it," Udoka said. "To some extent, try to bully the bully."

The Houston Rockets return to the Toyota Center to host the Golden State Warriors in a win-or-go-home matchup for the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup. The winner of the contest will travel to Las Vegas to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals Saturday. "Let's go get it done," head coach Ime Udoka said. "It's good to play in meaningful games." Rockets forward Tari Eason is returning to the lineup after missing two straight games in concussion protocol. The other half of the "Terror Twins," Amen Thompson, is coming off a 22-point performance in a 117-106 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Thompson is "such a great driver and slasher," Udoka said. "He doesn't have to be reliant on jump shots." The Warriors are on a 15-game win streak against the Rockets, including being 2-0 this season. The last time the Western Conference foes faced each other was December 5 in San Francisco, as the Warriors won 99-93. Golden State was missing starters Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, and Jonathan Kuminga recorded a career-high 33 points. However, both Curry and Green are available for Wednesday's matchup. "They do play very differently when Curry is back," Udoka said. Green serves as the leader for the Warriors' defense and draws comparisons to Dillon Brooks in the sense of getting under the skin of the opponent. "Use it as motivation, and don't back down and shy away from it," Udoka said. "To some extent, try to bully the bully."

The Houston Rockets were denied the top seed in the NBA Cup quarterfinals in Tuesday's 120-111 loss to the Sacramento Kings. De'Aaron Fox had 22 points, and the Kings went almost nine minutes without missing a shot from the field. "We were getting out of rotation for a little bit," head coach Ime Udoka said. In the game's final minutes, Udoka and Alperen Sengun were ejected after voicing their displeasure with referee John Goble over missed foul calls. Emotions continued to run high even after the buzzer, as Tari Eason attempted to enter the stands to confront a heckling fan. Udoka did not hold back in his postgame comments and is anticipating a fine from the league office. "I'll be hearing shortly," Udoka said. The Rockets, who have not lost two consecutive games so far this season, will look to bounce back when facing the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. Houston will also host Golden State on Wednesday, December 11, in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup.

The Houston Rockets were denied the top seed in the NBA Cup quarterfinals in Tuesday's 120-111 loss to the Sacramento Kings. De'Aaron Fox had 22 points, and the Kings went almost nine minutes without missing a shot from the field. "We were getting out of rotation for a little bit," head coach Ime Udoka said. In the game's final minutes, Udoka and Alperen Sengun were ejected after voicing their displeasure with referee John Goble over missed foul calls. Emotions continued to run high even after the buzzer, as Tari Eason attempted to enter the stands to confront a heckling fan. Udoka did not hold back in his postgame comments and is anticipating a fine from the league office. "I'll be hearing shortly," Udoka said. The Rockets, who have not lost two consecutive games so far this season, will look to bounce back when facing the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. Houston will also host Golden State on Wednesday, December 11, in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup.

The Rockets were one clean inbound and wide-open layup away from extending their winning streak to six games; however, Damian Lillard's driving layup with 3.9 seconds left ended up being the decider in the 101-100 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday. The Rockets overcame a 14-point, third-quarter deficit to take the lead in the fourth quarter and led until Lillard's closing basket. A strong defensive effort held stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard to 20 and 18 points, respectively, but this created an opportunity for role players such as Brook Lopez to take over. Lopez had 27 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. "We were helping a little bit too much at times," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Before Milwaukee, the Rockets earned a quality win in Chicago, defeating the Bulls 143-107 on Sunday. Fred VanVleet scored a season-high 28 points, while Alperen Sengun recorded his second triple-double of the season. All five starters reached double figures. "If we can get stops and run, that's when we're at our best," Udoka said. Despite a loss in Milwaukee, the Rockets have found a powerful spark off the bench in Tari Eason. The forward had 14 rebounds, four steals and three blocks against the Bucks. After missing much of last season due to a lower leg injury, Eason has improved through "the progression of playing consistent minutes," and he now "impacts the game in a crazy way," Udoka said. The Rockets return to the Toyota Center on Wednesday to host the Indiana Pacers in a matchup that will feature the debut of the 2024-25 City Edition uniform. The jersey celebrates the Rockets' 1994 and 1995 championships, and many former Rockets will be in attendance to commemorate the victories. "We got to put on a show and get a win for them."

The Rockets were one clean inbound and wide-open layup away from extending their winning streak to six games; however, Damian Lillard's driving layup with 3.9 seconds left ended up being the decider in the 101-100 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday. The Rockets overcame a 14-point, third-quarter deficit to take the lead in the fourth quarter and led until Lillard's closing basket. A strong defensive effort held stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard to 20 and 18 points, respectively, but this created an opportunity for role players such as Brook Lopez to take over. Lopez had 27 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. "We were helping a little bit too much at times," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Before Milwaukee, the Rockets earned a quality win in Chicago, defeating the Bulls 143-107 on Sunday. Fred VanVleet scored a season-high 28 points, while Alperen Sengun recorded his second triple-double of the season. All five starters reached double figures. "If we can get stops and run, that's when we're at our best," Udoka said. Despite a loss in Milwaukee, the Rockets have found a powerful spark off the bench in Tari Eason. The forward had 14 rebounds, four steals and three blocks against the Bucks. After missing much of last season due to a lower leg injury, Eason has improved through "the progression of playing consistent minutes," and he now "impacts the game in a crazy way," Udoka said. The Rockets return to the Toyota Center on Wednesday to host the Indiana Pacers in a matchup that will feature the debut of the 2024-25 City Edition uniform. The jersey celebrates the Rockets' 1994 and 1995 championships, and many former Rockets will be in attendance to commemorate the victories. "We got to put on a show and get a win for them."

The Houston Rockets are coming off Monday's 109-97 win over the New York Knicks to host the San Antonio Spurs. "I liked how we bounced back from the Golden State game," and "I loved our resiliency in the second half," head coach Ime Udoka said, who joined "The Matt Thomas Show with Ross" ahead of Wednesday's Western Conference matchup. The last time the Rockets faced the Spurs, Houston earned a 106-101 victory. While the Rockets and Spurs will be playing each other for the third time in the first two weeks of the season, the Rockets can't get comfortable against a familiar lineup. "We're challenging ourselves to be consistent regardless of the opponent," Udoka said. Jalen Green recorded 36 points against the Spurs on Oct. 28, and while he has had a hot start offensively, Green's defensive effort has improved with a Rockets team that likes to switch consistently when defending wings and guards. "What he's taken pride in is not being the weak link out there."

The Houston Rockets are coming off Monday's 109-97 win over the New York Knicks to host the San Antonio Spurs. "I liked how we bounced back from the Golden State game," and "I loved our resiliency in the second half," head coach Ime Udoka said, who joined "The Matt Thomas Show with Ross" ahead of Wednesday's Western Conference matchup. The last time the Rockets faced the Spurs, Houston earned a 106-101 victory. While the Rockets and Spurs will be playing each other for the third time in the first two weeks of the season, the Rockets can't get comfortable against a familiar lineup. "We're challenging ourselves to be consistent regardless of the opponent," Udoka said. Jalen Green recorded 36 points against the Spurs on Oct. 28, and while he has had a hot start offensively, Green's defensive effort has improved with a Rockets team that likes to switch consistently when defending wings and guards. "What he's taken pride in is not being the weak link out there."

The Houston Rockets have started the season 2-2 after Monday's 106-101 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Jalen Green scored 34 points, and the Rockets never trailed after losing to the Spurs 109-106 on Saturday. Head coach Ime Udoka joins "The Matt Thomas Show with Ross" to discuss the Rockets struggling with consistency early in the season. "So far after these four games, we've been up and down," Udoka said. The Rockets hope to go on a run early in the season with a softer schedule ahead, and the addition of Steven Adams will certainly strengthen the rotation. After missing the first three games of the season due to a left calf strain, Adams made his Rockets debut in Monday's win over the Spurs, recording six points and three rebounds in 14 minutes of play. "His IQ and communication have been invaluable" for the Rockets young core.

The Houston Rockets have started the season 2-2 after Monday's 106-101 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Jalen Green scored 34 points, and the Rockets never trailed after losing to the Spurs 109-106 on Saturday. Head coach Ime Udoka joins "The Matt Thomas Show with Ross" to discuss the Rockets struggling with consistency early in the season. "So far after these four games, we've been up and down," Udoka said. The Rockets hope to go on a run early in the season with a softer schedule ahead, and the addition of Steven Adams will certainly strengthen the rotation. After missing the first three games of the season due to a left calf strain, Adams made his Rockets debut in Monday's win over the Spurs, recording six points and three rebounds in 14 minutes of play. "His IQ and communication have been invaluable" for the Rockets young core.

Houston Rockets Practice Interviews: Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams and Head Coach Ime Udoka

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the first of two consecutive games against the Suns in Phoenix. The last time these Western Conference teams met, the Rockets hosted the Suns and beat them 114-110. However, tonight's rematch could be the first time this season the Rockets are without guard Jalen Green in the lineup, who is currently listed as questionable with illness. "Health is premium for our guys," Udoka said. Nevertheless, Udoka is confident in rookie Amen Thompson's ability to step up if Green is out. Despite winning over the Suns on February 23, the Rockets struggled to guard center Bol Bol, who scored 25 points, and even faced difficulty with Chet Holmgren in their last two games against the Oklahoma City Thunder. These long centers "are playing a lot on the perimeter," but "the game has changed and you really have to adapt with it." The Rockets' last two games were against the Thunder, and the next two are against the Suns. However, Udoka is not opposed to playing opponents back-to-back. "There are some benefits to it," and it gives "a little bit of a playoff atmosphere."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the first of two consecutive games against the Suns in Phoenix. The last time these Western Conference teams met, the Rockets hosted the Suns and beat them 114-110. However, tonight's rematch could be the first time this season the Rockets are without guard Jalen Green in the lineup, who is currently listed as questionable with illness. "Health is premium for our guys," Udoka said. Nevertheless, Udoka is confident in rookie Amen Thompson's ability to step up if Green is out. Despite winning over the Suns on February 23, the Rockets struggled to guard center Bol Bol, who scored 25 points, and even faced difficulty with Chet Holmgren in their last two games against the Oklahoma City Thunder. These long centers "are playing a lot on the perimeter," but "the game has changed and you really have to adapt with it." The Rockets' last two games were against the Thunder, and the next two are against the Suns. However, Udoka is not opposed to playing opponents back-to-back. "There are some benefits to it," and it gives "a little bit of a playoff atmosphere."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to recap the 132-129 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. Guard Fred VanVleet was missing from the lineup due to a left adductor strain, and Udoka breaks down the strategy moving forward without the veteran on the court. Younger players "play with a different pace," Udoka said. "We really zero in on transition offense," try "to capitalize on 3-on-2 breaks" and "kick out to shooters to get easy baskets." Udoka gives an update on VanVleet's injury, saying that it "looks like he's out for the rest of the road trip," and also the Rockets position with only a day away from the NBA trade deadline. The Rockets will travel to Toronto to take on the Raptors on Friday.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to recap the 132-129 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. Guard Fred VanVleet was missing from the lineup due to a left adductor strain, and Udoka breaks down the strategy moving forward without the veteran on the court. Younger players "play with a different pace," Udoka said. "We really zero in on transition offense," try "to capitalize on 3-on-2 breaks" and "kick out to shooters to get easy baskets." Udoka gives an update on VanVleet's injury, saying that it "looks like he's out for the rest of the road trip," and also the Rockets position with only a day away from the NBA trade deadline. The Rockets will travel to Toronto to take on the Raptors on Friday.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight at the Toyota Center. Guard Jalen Green played 186 NBA games without reaching 10 rebounds, but is now on a streak with three consecutive double-doubles. "Something just clicked for him," Udoka said. After a disappointing loss against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, the Rockets bounced back and defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 135-119 on Monday. "We want to get a streak of our own" and "try to finish off strong before All-Star break." Point guard Fred VanVleet had only 3 points but 14 assists against the Lakers. VanVleet is a veteran and is efficient at "taking what the game is giving him." The Pelicans are in town and power forward Zion Williamson is expected to play. The Rockets will look "to take him off his spots" and make "him work on both ends," Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight at the Toyota Center. Guard Jalen Green played 186 NBA games without reaching 10 rebounds, but is now on a streak with three consecutive double-doubles. "Something just clicked for him," Udoka said. After a disappointing loss against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, the Rockets bounced back and defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 135-119 on Monday. "We want to get a streak of our own" and "try to finish off strong before All-Star break." Point guard Fred VanVleet had only 3 points but 14 assists against the Lakers. VanVleet is a veteran and is efficient at "taking what the game is giving him." The Pelicans are in town and power forward Zion Williamson is expected to play. The Rockets will look "to take him off his spots" and make "him work on both ends," Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the Rockets taking on the Portland Trail Blazers tonight at the Toyota Center. After playing back-to-back games over the weekend which resulted in injuries, key members are returning to the starting lineup, including Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr. and Jeff Green. Udoka spends a little time teasing Green about his age and the fact that they used to play each other. Green is "looking young as ever." Due to injuries, younger players, such as Cam Whitmore, have gained more playing time. "There's nothing like experience out on the court." The Trail Blazers lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday after a controversial ending involving head coach Chauncey Billups attempting to call a timeout but the refs did not stop play. The Blazers filed protest with NBA, but Udoka says the Rockets are not underestimating a team that could be playing with a little bit more motivation. "They played well against a top team in the west."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the Rockets taking on the Portland Trail Blazers tonight at the Toyota Center. After playing back-to-back games over the weekend which resulted in injuries, key members are returning to the starting lineup, including Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr. and Jeff Green. Udoka spends a little time teasing Green about his age and the fact that they used to play each other. Green is "looking young as ever." Due to injuries, younger players, such as Cam Whitmore, have gained more playing time. "There's nothing like experience out on the court." The Trail Blazers lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday after a controversial ending involving head coach Chauncey Billups attempting to call a timeout but the refs did not stop play. The Blazers filed protest with NBA, but Udoka says the Rockets are not underestimating a team that could be playing with a little bit more motivation. "They played well against a top team in the west."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss losing the last 4 out of the 5 away games. The Rockets lost to the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday with Udoka calling a timeout within the first 90 seconds of the game. "It wasn't a great start," Udoka said. With Dillon Brooks returning to the lineup, the Rockets look to get back on track tonight with the last game of their 6-game road trip against the New York Knicks. Udoka says the Knicks are an aggressive team, but the Rockets are "going to come out and match that from the start."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss losing the last 4 out of the 5 away games. The Rockets lost to the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday with Udoka calling a timeout within the first 90 seconds of the game. "It wasn't a great start," Udoka said. With Dillon Brooks returning to the lineup, the Rockets look to get back on track tonight with the last game of their 6-game road trip against the New York Knicks. Udoka says the Knicks are an aggressive team, but the Rockets are "going to come out and match that from the start."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss the Rockets looking to get back in the win column after losing on the road to the Miami Heat on Monday. The Heat's "experience and continuity showed in" the 113-120 loss, Udoka said. The Rockets are in Chicago to take on the Bulls tonight, and Udoka predicts it will be a tough matchup. "Every game presents its own challenge," and the Bulls are "really good scorers," so the Rockets need to "keep their pace down." With Dillon Brooks and Tari Eason out due to injuries, younger teammates have stepped up, including rookie forward Cam Whitmore. Whitmore is "being aggressively offensive," but once he begins "knowing the personnel," you "can see the game start to slow down" and his "natural talents take over."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss the Rockets looking to get back in the win column after losing on the road to the Miami Heat on Monday. The Heat's "experience and continuity showed in" the 113-120 loss, Udoka said. The Rockets are in Chicago to take on the Bulls tonight, and Udoka predicts it will be a tough matchup. "Every game presents its own challenge," and the Bulls are "really good scorers," so the Rockets need to "keep their pace down." With Dillon Brooks and Tari Eason out due to injuries, younger teammates have stepped up, including rookie forward Cam Whitmore. Whitmore is "being aggressively offensive," but once he begins "knowing the personnel," you "can see the game start to slow down" and his "natural talents take over."

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. Udoka says the defensive strategy will focus on Nets guard Cam Thomas. "He's the guy we really have to key in on." Udoka also gives an update on Rockets forward Dillon Brooks who has been out with an oblique injury. "He's getting work in," but "he's on a week-to-week basis." With various starting lineup combinations, Udoka highlights Jae'Sean Tate, Tari Eason and Alperen Şengün because they "have impacted winning the most this year." After guard Amen Thompson was out due to injury and then spent some time with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the G League, he is back in Houston and contributing to team success. An injury as a rookie "halted the progress," but he is "knocking the rust off," Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. Udoka says the defensive strategy will focus on Nets guard Cam Thomas. "He's the guy we really have to key in on." Udoka also gives an update on Rockets forward Dillon Brooks who has been out with an oblique injury. "He's getting work in," but "he's on a week-to-week basis." With various starting lineup combinations, Udoka highlights Jae'Sean Tate, Tari Eason and Alperen Şengün because they "have impacted winning the most this year." After guard Amen Thompson was out due to injury and then spent some time with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the G League, he is back in Houston and contributing to team success. An injury as a rookie "halted the progress," but he is "knocking the rust off," Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss the 123-117 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. During the loss, forward Dillon Brooks left the game due to a right abdominal oblique strain and did not return to the floor. However, Udoka highlights guard Aaron Holiday's performance as a positive. Center Alperen Şengün also had a good showing, completing his first back-to-back 30-point games. "He always initiated offense from different areas," and "we saw the defensive improvement," Udoka said. The Rockets are set to play the Phoenix Suns tonight at the Toyota Center. The Suns are 14-15 and sit at fifth in the Pacific Division despite having all-star talent in Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkić. "It's hard to find that consistency" with a lot of injuries, Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to discuss the 123-117 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. During the loss, forward Dillon Brooks left the game due to a right abdominal oblique strain and did not return to the floor. However, Udoka highlights guard Aaron Holiday's performance as a positive. Center Alperen Şengün also had a good showing, completing his first back-to-back 30-point games. "He always initiated offense from different areas," and "we saw the defensive improvement," Udoka said. The Rockets are set to play the Phoenix Suns tonight at the Toyota Center. The Suns are 14-15 and sit at fifth in the Pacific Division despite having all-star talent in Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkić. "It's hard to find that consistency" with a lot of injuries, Udoka said.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to talk about the team's road losses to the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. "I felt like we didn't play our best at all," Udoka said. Shooting guard Jalen Green scored only 16 and 12 points in his last two games and has been benched late in the 4th quarter. Udoka says his advice to Green is to "continue to be aggressive" and learn to "read the game." Forward Tari Eason has been productive, and Udoka says its because "he plays with intense effort." The Rockets hope to continue their home win streak as they take on the Atlanta Hawks tonight at the Toyota Center.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to talk about the team's road losses to the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. "I felt like we didn't play our best at all," Udoka said. Shooting guard Jalen Green scored only 16 and 12 points in his last two games and has been benched late in the 4th quarter. Udoka says his advice to Green is to "continue to be aggressive" and learn to "read the game." Forward Tari Eason has been productive, and Udoka says its because "he plays with intense effort." The Rockets hope to continue their home win streak as they take on the Atlanta Hawks tonight at the Toyota Center.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to talk about the team's road struggles, but also their successes at home with a current 10-game home win streak. "We want to translate what we're doing at home to on the road," Udoka said. Small forward Tari Eason has played well after returning from a leg injury. "He was itching to get back on the court." Shooting guard Amen Thompson returned to the lineup after spending some time in the G League. "He's a rookie that's starting on the fly," but "he knocked the rust off." The Rockets play the Memphis Grizzlies tonight in Houston, but on Friday, the Rockets travel to Memphis and Dillon Brooks will return to his previous home court. Udoka compares Brooks' intensity to one of his former teammates Rasheed Wallace. "The guys that you hate to play against, you love to play on your team." When asked about the fines that come with his recent technical fouls, Udoka jokes "you just add them to your monthly expenses."

Rockets Shooting Guard Jalen Green joins Paul George and his co-hosts Jackie Long and Dallas Rutherford to talk through Jalen's unique path from the G-League to the NBA (5:25). Then PG and Jalen share their draft day stories (19:04), welcome to the league moments, and why Kyrie Irving is so tough to guard (35:20). Jalen gives us his thoughts on new Head Coach Ime Udoka, the James Harden rumors (45:35), and the Rockets bright future. Finally, Jalen gives us his Starting 5 dunkers (1:08:48) and a hilarious Michael Jordan story(1:12:34). Follow Podcast P on Social Media:  https://linktr.ee/podcastp Support the show: Download the Prizepicks app and for all first time users that deposit and use our promo code PODCASTP will receive a 100% instant deposit match up to $100. https://prizepicks.onelink.me/ivHR/k254oaqg Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PodcastP and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talk about a Magnificent Monday! There's more breaking news, once again in the NBA! The Houston Rockets have hired former Celtics HC Ime Udoka to take over for their vacant head coaching position. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices