Reed Sheppard of the Houston Rockets reflected on how challenging his rookie year was after being taken No. 3 in the 2024 draft, admitting the adjustment affected him both mentally and physically.
Speaking to Shakeia Taylor of The Athletic, he explained how unfamiliar the experience felt at the time, but he has since settled in and found his rhythm during his second season.
“It was tough. It was different. I wasn’t used to anything like that,” Sheppard said.
Now in his second year, the guard has played in every game and started 21 during the regular season.
He’s been especially steady in the series against the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring exactly 17 points in three of the four matchups so far.
Sheppard credited his improvement to growing confidence and leaning on his preparation, focusing on trusting himself in high-pressure situations.
“I think a lot of it is just trust in yourself. I’ve played basketball my whole life, and I’ve been in moments that you dream of as a little kid,” Sheppard said.
“So, now that I’m here, it’s like just have fun, trust in yourself and trust the work that you put in.”
Rockets Notes: Sengun, Eason, Smith Jr., Sheppard https://t.co/HFOi5lOc8P
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 29, 2026
