Statistically, the 2023-24 campaign has been an uneven one for third-year Rockets guard Jalen Green. But Houston’s head coach, Ime Udoka, doesn’t want that to affect Green’s mindset.
In a newly released interview, Udoka was asked about Green’s season to date by Vanessa Richardson of Space City Home Network, the team’s regional television partner for game broadcasts.
Regarding Green and what the team wants to see, Udoka said:
We want to continue his growth, and see consistency and an aggressive mindset, which he always should have. With him, it’s about being confident at all times, and understanding how teams are trying to take him out. He was obviously our leading scorer, last year, and has done some great things in his young career… but the buildup and being a well-rounded player, that’s the main thing.
It’s about doing it all over the court, and not just relying on scoring or any one thing to impact the game. He’s growing in those areas. His competitiveness has gone up, his attention to detail and effort, and obviously his scoring is always going to be there.
“Always stay confident, be aggressive, and take what the game gives you,” Udoka said of his advice to Green.
The complete Udoka interview can be viewed below.
Enjoyed this chat with @HoustonRockets Head Coach Ime Udoka about a variety of topics….
-Mindset this season
-Vet leadership
-Goals for Jalen
-Jabari's versatility
-Alperen's game & working with Tiago Splitter
-Rookie minutes
-Tari's impact (& who he reminds coach of!)
-Road… pic.twitter.com/0b8TSasIVY— Vanessa Richardson (@SportsVanessa) January 8, 2024
For the 2023-24 year as a whole, Green’s scoring has dipped from 22.1 points per game last season to 17.4 points this season. However, there have been signs of progress in recent games.
Entering Monday, over Green’s last six outings, the 6-foot-6 guard is averaging 21.0 points and 5.5 rebounds in 30.0 minutes while shooting 45.7% from the field and 45.3% on 3-pointers.
