Rockets' Alperen Sengun shows every sign of being a leader

The Houston Rockets know Alperen Sengun is a future star. The more he shows of his personality, the more he begins to look like a leader as well.

That's not a role that's suited for everyone. It's not just about talent. Some of the most talented players in the NBA were not equipped to lead teammates.

It's about the mentality. A leader needs to be ultra-competitive, but mature as well. They need to be a calming presence when necessary, but capable of igniting a fire under their teammates when the moment calls for heat.

Sengun seems like exactly that type of young man.

Rockets' Alperen Sengun exhibits leadership qualities

Over the summer, Sengun has been leading Team Turkey in EuroBasket play. After the team eliminated Greece, he had some choice words about Giannis Antetokounmpo's passing ability. It should be noted that he didn't shake Antetokounmpo's hand at the end of the game - although that decision seemed mutual.

Some may be questioning the logic here. Is that how a leader conducts himself? That's where it's worth remembering that Sengun is still just 23. The point is that he's proven how much competitive fire burns inside of him.

Yet, he can be poised at times, too. Sengun and Antetokounmpo quickly agreed to bury the hatchet. They composed a joint social media post stating that "sports are made to unite us, not divide us".

It's a beautiful sentiment. The entire ordeal was a story of two men who badly want to win, but also have strong hearts. It's a contradiction that all the best leaders in sports have to navigate.

Sengun won't be any exception.

Rockets' Alperen Sengun is a team cornerstone

Sports writers should be wary of psychoanalyzing players from afar.

I don't know Alperen Sengun. I am not qualified to comment on his character. That said, there's less danger in making positive observations as compared to criticisms. I can only say that this seems like the type of young man I'm happy to watch as a Rockets leader for years to come.

It's a position he's likely to hold regardless. Sengun was a first-time All-Star at just 22 last year. Barring a shocking trade, this is a player who's going to be in Houston for some time. So, his being a positive influence on the people around him goes a long way.

Hopefully, he can lead the team to an NBA title before long.