"This organization saved my life"- Kevin Porter Jr's statement makes Rockets coach tear up, says it 'means a lot'
Kevin Porter Jr has found himself a new home with the Houston Rockets. After a shaky start to his NBA career, Porter has found his groove with his new team. The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Porter in the 2019 NBA Draft.
After some off-court issues, Porter was eventually traded to the Houston Rockets. It was viewed at the time as questionable. Kevin Porter Jr. continued to struggle with adapting to the NBA lifestyle. Houston recently invested in their young guard, awarding him a four-year extension worth $82.5 million. Porter took strides last season, averaging 15.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game.
Porter was trending in the wrong direction but has found his home with the Rockets. When speaking to the media recently, Kevin Porter Jr. praised the Rockets.
"This organization saved my life," Porter said.
The Rockets coach, Stephen Silas, fought back tears when it was brought up in an interview.
"It means a lot," Silas said.
Silas is entering his third year with the Rockets. He has a 37-117 record in his first two seasons.
KPJ’s extension means a lot to Stephen Silas 🥲❤️
(h/t @MarkBermanFox26 )
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Kevin Porter Jr signs extension with Houston Rockets
Since being drafted 30th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Kevin Porter Jr. has continued to showcase his offensive firepower. Porter is a dynamic guard with the ability to score in bunches. He is projected to be one of the starting guards for the Houston Rockets this season.
Houston continues to be aggressive in their rebuild and investing in the future of Porter is the latest step. The team looks to have a rising superstar in second-year wing Jalen Green, giving them an exciting duo in the backcourt. Green averaged 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in his rookie year.
Houston also had an impressive 2022 NBA Draft class, selecting Jabari Smith Jr, Tari Eason and TyTy Washington in the first round.
If Porter can continue to take strides in his game, it will give the Rockets another exciting piece for their rebuild. Many have questioned whether or not KPJ can be a point guard for this team. With the recent extension, it's clear that Houston is excited about the development of their guard.
Asked about Kevin Porter Jr.'s comment that this "organization saved my life, probably" Stephen Silas teared up, finally said "It means a lot."
He also had one of his most efficient seasons last year, shooting 41.5% from the field and 37.5% from 3-point range. The recent extension by Houston is only guaranteed for one year, meaning that the Rockets will proceed with caution.