Rockets' TyTy Washington Jr. Embodying Next-Man-Up Mentality Post All-Star Break
HOUSTON — TyTy Washington Jr. came to the Houston Rockets as a top-10 player at his position during the 2022 NBA Draft.
His lone season at the University of Kentucky had many believing Washington would take the helm as Kevin Porter Jr.'s primary backup. But through the first 56 games of the season, Washington has spent more time playing for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers than the Rockets.
Coach Stephen Silas has preached readiness and patience to Washington. And due to the injuries to Porter and Jalen Green, Washington has a chance to showcase his potential with quality minutes, starting Friday night against the Golden State Warriors.
"It's all about staying ready whenever my number is called," Washington said. "When I am on the court, it doesn't matter if I am making shots or not, I am going to find ways to be productive. It's about having that next-man-up mentality."
Since Porter went down with a left toe contusion on Jan. 11, Silas has stated that the lack of a facilitator and shot creator has hampered the Rockets' play.
Washington has great confidence in his ball-handling skills. He feels he can enhance Houston's insufficient guard play in Green's and Porter's absences.
The Rockets received a glimpse into Washington's potential in two of the final six games before the All-Star break.
As a scoring guard embodying his all-time favorite player Allen Iverson, Washington registered a career-high 20 points (9-of-16 FG, 2-of-7 3PT) in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Feb. 4. Five nights later, he set a career-high six assists in a two-point loss against the Miami Heat.
"I want him to shoot the ball," Silas said. "I want him to feel free to shoot it. But I also want to see him make reads and get us involved in the pick-and-roll. On the defensive end, I want to see him get after it as a point guard. I want him to be the quarterback. It's going to be on him, and Alperen [Sengun], to get us going."
Silas said behind closed doors, Washington has showcased his ability to score and shoot.
He understands the inconsistency in minutes has made it rough for Washington to find his rhythm on an NBA level. But Silas says Washington has to stop pressing and play to his abilities.
Washington's increased role can create a blueprint to utilize during the off-season in hopes of a better sophomore campaign. But Washignton's primary focus is to help the Rockets win as much as possible through the final 24 games of the season.
"Winning takes care of everything," Washington said. "My biggest focus is on winning and being the best version of myself."
You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24
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