Rockets’ Alperen Sengun shares strong stance on ‘Baby Joker’ nickname

Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun walked away from Monday night’s 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets with mixed emotions. The defeat stuck him, but the match brought him another meter Nikola Jokicthe player with whom he is often compared and the one behind his nickname “Baby Joker”.

Sengun made it clear that the night brought extra motivation. He acknowledged his previous showing against Jokic left him wanting more, sharpening his focus from the opening tip, according to TalkBasket. Physical play defined the battle, especially with Jokic and Jamal Murray forcing defenders to stay disciplined to avoid foul trouble. Sengun acknowledged how difficult the balance can be against elite offensive talent, crediting Jokic’s ability to dominate from every spot on the floor.

Despite the loss, Sengun highlighted the moments when Houston’s collective defense showed up. He especially praised Jabari Smith Jr. for the weak-side block that wiped out Jokic’s shot at the rim, calling it a key response after Denver hurt them in similar situations earlier. Sengun also pointed to Kevin Durant’s help on the defensive end, framing the effort as a team effort rather than an individual duel.

Sengun gives up comparisons and accepts his own path

The conversation changed when Sengun addressed the “Babi Jokic” label that follows him around the league. Although he said he didn’t mind the comparison, he drew a clear line about his identity. Sengun emphasized that he sees himself on his own journey, leading a young group of Rockets and creating a role separate from any shadow.

“It was great to hear … but I’m on my way. I’m leading one of the best teams in the league,” he said.

That way of thinking showed in his performance. Sengun had 33 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, securing his first triple-double of the season, as Houston shot effectively from the field and beyond the arc. Still, overtime revealed the fine margins that separate contenders from teams still learning how to close.

Sengun stressed that evening out Denver’s physicality remains a priority, especially against players like Jokic who touch the ball on nearly every possession. He understands how stars control games through contact and decision-making, and he sees those lessons as part of his growth.

Houston now looks ahead after falling to 10-17 and losing three straight road games.