Houston Rockets Exclusive: Jermaine Samuels Jr. 'Amazing Talent' as G League All-Star Selection
HOUSTON — Each time Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka assigns one of his players to the G League, he gives that guy his respective goals-of-improvement tasks.
Udoka encouraged Cam Whitmore to upgrade his defense and rebounding when he was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in November. For Amen Thompson, his objective was to get back into basketball shape after missing 15 consecutive games due to a right ankle sprain.
And when it came to Jermaine Samuels Jr.'s assignment, Udoka wanted the former Villanova prospect to continue developing his versatility. Samuels met Udoka's objectives, which led to a G-League All-Star berth in Indianapolis.
"It was great, I felt honored," Samuels told Inside the Rockets. "I had a chance to perform and show out through the season. I am an older guy coming from an experienced college program at Villanova. (The Rockets) also had some expectations of me. There was no need to have a conversation — other than to keep doing what I was doing."
Rockets forward Jermaine Samuels Jr. (00) battles for the ball with Indiana Pacers guard Isaiah Wong (21) during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Samuels' first season with the Vipers marked his second G League stint. He spent his rookie season playing for the Indiana Mad Ants, laying the groundwork to a pro career.
Vipers coach Kevin Burleson wasn't familiar with Samuels before he signed with the Rockets. However, it did not take long for Burleson to witness why Udoka became enamored with Samuels.
He first noticed Samuels during the Rockets' Summer League tournament in Las Vegas, where he averaged 11.3 points and 5.0 rebounds across six games. Each time Samuels stepped inside the Thomas and Mack Center, Burleson had a sense that "the sky is the limit." His belief remained true after the two parties started working together in Rio Grande Valley.
Although impressed by his skill set, Burleson said Samuels' professionalism was the top attribute that stood out the most.
"Guys that go to Villanova have that — I was impressed with the way he approached the game," Burleson said. "The talent was there, just watching him at Summer League. ... But that extra part of his approach to the game impressed me the most.
"You always want your guys to have a great season, there best season if possible. It is great for him and his career. He is an amazing talent. I was excited when I got the news. I am just happy for him."
Samuels' professionalism has been one of the most essential keys to his success. As a player on a two-way contract, Samuels has experienced the challenges that come with a player going back and forth between the G League and the NBA.
His "stay-ready mentality" led to Samuels averaging a career-best 21.1 points on 49.7 percent shooting from the field, 8.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals.
Samuels displayed his All-Star talent on Nov. 11. He led the Vipers to a 134-117 victory over the Memphis Hustle inside the Landers Center, finishing with a career-best 38 points to go along with seven rebounds.
Two months later, Samuels had another All-Star worthy performance on Jan. 9. He helped the Vipers take a 110-108 overtime victory against the Oklahoma City Blue inside the Paycom Arena. He finished the game with 26 points and 13 rebounds. With the game tied at 108, Samuels scored the game-winning basket in the closing seconds.
"When I had my first 38-point game, as soon as I got back, everyone celebrated me," Samuels said. "Coach Ime makes it apparent to the whole locker room. My teammates are also paying attention and watching highlights. They show a lot of love. It makes me feel supported. It makes me feel like I can contribute to what we are building in Houston."
The day Samuels received the news of his All-Star nod was a joyous moment. He spent the entire day receiving congratulatory messages from family, friends and teammates from the Vipers and Rockets.
Samuels is thrilled to have the opportunity to represent his respective franchises in Indianapolis. The All-Star selection is a career accomplishment. However, Samuels' top priority is to continue developing his game to obtain consistent minutes in the NBA.
"For me, it is all about getting better," Samuels said. "To be the best teammate and player I can be. Doing everything I can do to help this organization win."
