A journalist for ESPN makes a daring prediction on Reed Sheppard, a rookie with the Rockets.

As the NBA continues to evolve with a new generation of young talent taking the spotlight, few rookies have managed to capture the attention of experts and fans alike as quickly as Reed Sheppard. The Houston Rockets’ newest addition is a name that is beginning to make waves not only in Houston but also across the entire basketball world. Sheppard, a dynamic combo guard with a versatile skill set, has already drawn significant praise for his potential, and one bold journalist from ESPN is making a daring prediction about the future of the young player.

The Rise of Reed Sheppard: From Kentucky to the Rockets

Reed Sheppard’s journey to the NBA is one that has been paved with promise and high expectations. After spending his collegiate career at the University of Kentucky, Sheppard showcased the traits of a player capable of transitioning to the professional level with ease. His stint in the SEC was marked by his stellar performances, not just as a scorer but as a playmaker, which quickly caught the eyes of scouts and analysts.

Standing at 6’3″ and weighing in at around 190 pounds, Sheppard combines size and agility in a way that allows him to both defend and create offense in a variety of ways. His ability to play both guard positions, with an excellent basketball IQ, a deft shooting touch, and solid court vision, made him a highly coveted prospect entering the 2025 NBA Draft. It wasn’t long before the Houston Rockets, known for their ongoing rebuilding project and a thirst for young talent, saw in Sheppard the kind of player who could one day become the backbone of their future.

Drafted as the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Sheppard is now a part of a Rockets team that has been steadily building around young stars like Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün. With their sights set on returning to contention, the Rockets’ management sees Sheppard as a key piece to their long-term success. But beyond the coaching staff and front office, Sheppard’s impact has caught the attention of basketball pundits across the nation, including ESPN’s rising star analyst, Chris “Chad” Thompson.

Chris Thompson’s Daring Prediction

Chris Thompson, a well-known NBA analyst at ESPN, has been following Reed Sheppard’s development closely since his days at Kentucky. Thompson has been vocal about his admiration for Sheppard’s all-around game, and as the NBA season kicks off, he has made a bold prediction that has turned heads across the basketball world.

In a recent feature on ESPN’s website, Thompson stated that he believes Reed Sheppard will be named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team by the end of the 2025-2026 season. This prediction is especially daring given the competitive nature of the NBA’s rookie class, which features a plethora of highly touted prospects, including the likes of Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson, and Amen Thompson. For Thompson to predict Sheppard’s rapid ascent to such a prestigious honor is nothing short of a statement of confidence in the rookie’s potential.

But what makes Thompson so confident in Sheppard’s ability to shine? According to Thompson, the key lies in Sheppard’s adaptability and ability to fit into the Rockets’ system, alongside his innate basketball skills.

Sheppard’s Versatility as a Playmaker

One of the aspects of Reed Sheppard’s game that has most impressed Thompson—and many others—is his ability to act as both a facilitator and a scorer. At Kentucky, Sheppard wasn’t just known for his scoring; he was also a willing passer who understood how to read defenses and set up his teammates for success. His court vision and basketball IQ allow him to run an offense effectively, even as a rookie, and he’s shown an ability to make smart decisions under pressure.

Thompson believes Sheppard’s playmaking ability will be crucial to his success in the NBA, especially with a Rockets team that is looking to develop young talent in a fast-paced environment. “The Rockets are still in the early stages of their rebuild,” Thompson wrote in his ESPN column, “but with the tools they’ve put around Sheppard—such as Green’s scoring ability and Şengün’s inside presence—he has the chance to thrive as both a creator and scorer.”

Sheppard’s versatility means he doesn’t need to dominate the ball to make an impact. He can play off the ball, spacing the floor with his shooting ability while also contributing as a secondary playmaker when needed. His comfort level in both the pick-and-roll and isolation situations makes him a threat in a variety of offensive schemes, something that will make him a valuable asset in the Rockets’ fast-paced, developing offense.

A Daring Prediction Amid High Expectations

Thompson’s bold prediction of Sheppard’s All-Rookie First Team honors doesn’t come without its risks. The rookie class of 2025 is considered one of the deepest in recent memory, and Sheppard faces stiff competition from other high-profile players. Victor Wembanyama, the consensus No. 1 overall pick and a once-in-a-generation prospect, is expected to dominate in San Antonio. Scoot Henderson, selected by the Portland Trail Blazers, has the potential to take over the point guard role immediately. And Amen Thompson, selected by the Houston Rockets’ rival Detroit Pistons, also brings a unique skill set to the table.

Yet Thompson believes that Sheppard’s blend of skills, work ethic, and fit with the Rockets’ rebuilding project sets him apart from his peers. “There are a lot of great rookies in this class,” Thompson admitted, “but Sheppard’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways, combined with the fact that he’s going to get significant playing time in Houston, makes him a real threat to claim that spot on the All-Rookie team.”

The Rockets have made it clear that they are in the midst of a rebuilding process, but they are also looking to accelerate their timeline to success. The combination of young stars like Green, Şengün, and Sheppard gives the team a potential core for the future. Thompson’s prediction hinges on the idea that Sheppard’s development will be accelerated due to the team’s commitment to giving him meaningful minutes early in his career.

The Support of Rockets Management and Coaches

A key factor in Sheppard’s early success will be the support he receives from the Rockets’ coaching staff, led by head coach Ime Udoka. Udoka, known for his defensive prowess as a player and his strong coaching background with the Boston Celtics, brings a disciplined approach to Houston. His coaching style should help Sheppard refine his defensive skills, which, while good, still have room for improvement. Udoka’s emphasis on team defense and player development will be crucial for Sheppard’s growth, and the coach’s ability to develop young players has been proven in the past.

Udoka’s system will also benefit Sheppard’s offensive game. By emphasizing ball movement and spacing, Udoka is creating an environment in which Sheppard can thrive as both a scorer and facilitator. As the Rockets develop a team identity centered around youth and energy, Sheppard’s skill set fits perfectly into that mold.

Sheppard’s Potential as a Two-Way Player

Another reason for Thompson’s optimism about Sheppard’s future is his potential as a two-way player. While Sheppard’s offensive game has been the primary focus of his scouting reports, his defense has quietly impressed many observers. His size and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions, and his understanding of positioning and help defense makes him a capable asset on that side of the ball.

Thompson notes that as the NBA continues to value two-way players more than ever, Sheppard’s ability to contribute on both ends of the court will give him an edge in a crowded rookie class. “He’s not just a guy who can score,” Thompson emphasized. “Sheppard is capable of locking down his man on defense and making plays that change the game on both ends of the floor. That’s something that can’t be overlooked when evaluating rookies.”

The Road Ahead: A Bright Future for Reed Sheppard

While predicting a spot on the All-Rookie First Team for Reed Sheppard may seem like a bold move, ESPN’s Chris Thompson has every reason to be confident in the young guard’s potential. With the support of his coaching staff, the opportunities available in Houston, and his already-impressive skill set, Sheppard is poised for a breakout year in the NBA.

As the 2025-2026 NBA season unfolds, all eyes will be on Sheppard and the Rockets. If Thompson’s prediction comes true, Sheppard could find himself at the center of Houston’s rebuild, setting the stage for what promises to be a long and successful career in the NBA.

A Rookie to Watch

Reed Sheppard is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing rookies to watch this season. Whether he will live up to the daring prediction of All-Rookie First Team honors remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the Houston Rockets’ future looks bright with Sheppard as a key piece of their rebuilding effort. His combination of versatility, high basketball IQ, and potential as a two-way player makes him a name to remember for years to come.

As the 2025-2026 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Reed Sheppard as he looks to prove his doubters wrong and show the world why he is destined for greatness.