RGV VIPERS: The Rockets’ G League Team is Just as HOT!
By Megan Trevino
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers are just as HOT as their NBA affiliate the Rockets.
The Vipers are on a HOT streak, so far winning 8 games in a row. A win tonight could make it 9!
The team ranks thirds (3rd) in the Western Conference and second (2nd) in the Southwest Division with a record of (8-3).
Many of players are having outstanding games from Chris Walker, Monte Morris, Danuel House, and RJ Hunter!
Chris Walker is one of 2 returning players from last year. He is locked in this season. I have been very impressed with his playing out on the court along with his passion and determination.
This season Walker is averaging 11.9 points and 5.3 rebounds compared to last year’s average of 5.9 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.
Now let’s look at how the Rockets players are doing in the G – League.
Rockets’ Assignees
Chinanu Onuaku has 4th double-double of the season. In his last game, he had 12 points and 13 rebounds. Onuaku has been averaging 10 points per game, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists.
. @lifeofnanu_32 posted another double-double last night with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and even had 5 assists. See Nanu and the #Vipers tonight when they face @renobighorn LIVE on https://t.co/zm2sssgORn. Tip-off is set for 9:00PM. #FeelTheVenom #NBAGLeague pic.twitter.com/7ToH0jBred
— RGV Vipers (@RGVVipers) November 25, 2017
Troy Williams is averaging 18.3 points per game, 6.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists. Williams was re-signed to the Rockets this summer and is currently assigned to the Vipers. More than likely, he will be going back and forth between the two teams very often this season.
And Troy is putting on quite a show in the G League. Of course, he is the reigning “Dunk” Champion of the NBA G-League.
Zhou Qi has made the most of his time with the Vipers, averaging 11 points per game, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.
So far in every appearance, he has made his presence known by making every minute on the court count.
Rockets’ Two-Way Players
Briante Weber is a BEAST! He is currently the Vipers leading scorer, averaging 17.9 points per game, 6.1 rebounds, 7 assists and 2.5 steals.
In addition, he has hit two game winners at the buzzer this season! So far those have been top highlights of the season!
Another great game for @D_J11 last night with 16 points shooting 64% from the field. #FeelTheVenom #NBAGLeague pic.twitter.com/Zo7NP69GU8
— RGV Vipers (@RGVVipers) November 26, 2017
Demetrius Jackson is averaging 14.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists with the Vipers. In the previous game, he scored 19 points; in addition, he went 50% from field goals and 50% in three-pointers.
I look forward to seeing the growth he continues to make out on the court!
KEEP THAT FIRE LIT!
As a huge fan, I am loving that these players are giving it all they got for the team. I am hoping this means another trip to the G League Finals. *wink wink*
In addition, it is extremely promising that these Rockets assignees and two-way players are receiving the needed playing time and experience out on the court. Many of these players such as Briante Weber, Troy Williams could be valuable during the postseason.
I am sure you all are more concerned with how all of this effects the Rockets, however, I am so excited that the Vipers have been doing well and I hope they continue on this “HOT” streak. I want that G League title back in the RGV where it belongs!
Tune in tonight on Facebook Live or enjoy the LIVE action at State Farm Arena at 7 P.M. (CT)!