Rockets general manager Rafael Stone visits Alperen Şengün in Türkiye

Houston Rockets general manager Rafael Stone spent two weeks in Türkiye this summer visiting center Alperen Şengün to foster their professional relationship. The trip followed specific requests from Şengün for better communication between the front office and players. During the stay in Istanbul and Bodrum, the two discussed team dynamics and expectations away from the daily demands of the NBA schedule. Şengün, who recently helped Türkiye secure a spot in the upcoming FIBA World Cup, has emerged as a vocal leader for the Rockets alongside teammates like Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson. Stone noted that he intended the visit to improve his own transparency with the team and strengthen his connection with the 24-year-old center as the franchise builds its core roster.

• 9:48 PMYahoo Sports — Why Rockets GM Rafael Stone felt it was 'important' to spend time with Alperen Şengün in Türkiye