The Houston Rockets announced earlier today their intention to sign Oregon Center N’Faly Dante to a two-way contract. Dante went undrafted following the 2024 NBA Draft and a five-year collegiate career as a member of the Oregon Ducks. Dante averaged 17 points per game last season along with 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. He only appeared in 21 games in his final year in college which did not allow him to qualify in many statistical categories. If he qualified, Dante would have been top 20 in blocks per game.
Dante averaged 11.3 points per game, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in his collegiate career. How will Dante fit in with the Houston Rockets in his rookie year and beyond?
What Will Dante Bring To The Houston Rockets?
Undrafted Oregon center N'Faly Dante has agreed on a two-way deal with the Rockets, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 27, 2024
Dante was one of the nation’s most feared paint presences last season with Oregon. He will look to make an immediate impact in the NBA with his stellar defensive prowess. Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka prides himself on having his teams play strong defense and Dante will fit that mold perfectly. Houston’s defense was average last season as they were 14th in the league surrendering 113.2 per game. Dante will only improve Houston on that side of the ball.
The 6’10” center will join a young core of the Houston Rockets that should have them set up well for years to come. Shooting Guard Jalen Green, Power Forward Jabari Smith Jr., and Center Alperen Sengun are the cornerstones of a rebuilding Rockets franchise.
Houston finished in 11th place in the Western Conference last season with a record of 41-41. The arrow is clearly pointing up for the Rockets as the team will be in the NBA Playoff picture for a majority of the 2024-25 campaign and for the years to follow.
What Other Players Have Houston Drafted
The Rockets drafted Guard Reed Sheppard out of Kentucky at No. 3 overall and Shooting Guard Pelle Larsson at 44th overall. Houston will look to both of these players, in addition to Dante, to hit the ground running once next season rolls around. Houston has a great roster and will be a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference for many years.
For More Great Content
‘Check out all of the great content Total Apex Sports has to offer. Check us out on X @TotalApexSports and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy