Rockets' Tari Eason Uses Jordan Rising Stars Snub As Motivation In Win vs. Thunder
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HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets will have three players representing the franchise inside Vivint Arena on Feb. 17. Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun will participate in the 2023 Jordan Rising Stars event in Salt Lake City.
The Rockets will be well-represented during NBA All-Star weekend. But the absence of Tari Eason will be apparent.
Eason was not one of the 28 players invited to the rising stars event. But the rookie prospect from LSU will not hold a grudge for being snubbed.
"It doesn't matter what the outside world thinks of me, I know what kind of player I am," Eason said. "I know what I bring, and I will continue to work. "No one has ever fought for me. I had to get it out of the mud my whole life. And I'm going to continue with that mentality."
Eason's emotion toward not making the Rising Star game was another occurrence of being overlooked. Eason said he has been counted out and overlooked his entire career. But each neglection has motivated him to work harder while staying true to himself.
The mentality he carries led to a career performance Wednesday night in the Rockets' 112-106 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Eason registered a career-high 20 points and 13 rebounds in the win — a dozen of his boards came on the offensive glass.
The win gave the Rockets their third victory over the previous five games, as Eason finished the night with his third straight double-double.
He may not be receiving league-wide recognition for his play. But Eason's coaches and teammates have not overlooked his importance to the team by displaying their respect and admiration.
"Down the line, he is going to be pretty damn good," Eric Gordon said. "I just love the way he plays. He plays hard and has a knack to find the ball with his rebounding and scoring."
Coach Stephen Silas added: "The 21 shots are not indicative to play calls or anything like that. It's indicative of his efforts. I thought he played a very good game."
Since starting in place of an injured Jabari Smith Jr. on Jan. 23, Eason has been on a tear over the previous six games. He has averaged 14.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.2 blocks while helping the Rockets go 3-3.
He may not be representing the Rockets in Utah alongside his teammates during the Jordan Rising Stars event. But it will not be long before Eason receives league-wide recognition that's more valuable than a rookie versus sophomore showcase.
"Anytime I step on the court, I want to bring a lot of effort, a lot of hustle," Eason said. "That’s just what I do. When you bring energy, especially off the bench, I think it’s infectious. It bleeds into the team in all facets."
You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24
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