## NBA Draft Pick Reed Sheppard Scores First Points in Rockets Debut ### Rising Star Makes Impact in First NBA Game Former No. 3 pick Reed Sheppard made his much-anticipated NBA debut for the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night, and he didn't disappoint. The 20-year-old guard entered the game in the fourth quarter and quickly made his mark, scoring his first NBA points on a driving layup. Sheppard finished the game with 6 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist in just over 6 minutes of play. Sheppard's performance was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing night for the Rockets, who lost to the San Antonio Spurs 112-98. Despite the loss, Sheppard's debut was a positive sign for the future of the Rockets, who are rebuilding after a disappointing season last year. ### Sheppard's Journey to the NBA Sheppard was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, and he lived up to the hype in his one season at the University of Kentucky. He averaged 14.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, and he led the Wildcats to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. Sheppard was selected by the Rockets with the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. He is the highest draft pick by the Rockets since Yao Ming in 2002. ### Sheppard's Future with the Rockets Sheppard is expected to play a major role for the Rockets in the future. He is a talented scorer and playmaker, and he has the potential to be a star in the NBA. The Rockets are hoping that Sheppard can help them return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. Sheppard is still just 20 years old, so he has plenty of time to develop and reach his full potential. However, his performance in his NBA debut showed that he is already a player to watch.
