The 2023 NBA Draft recently witnessed an exciting story of the Thompson twins, Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson, who became hot topics of debate, with both being selected within the top 5. The Houston Rockets secured Amen as the No. 4 pick, while Ausar was chosen by the Detroit Pistons at No. 5.
The draft selections, however, do not tell the entire story. Analyzing their performance in the Overtime Elite (OTE) 2022-23 season provides a closer look at their capabilities. Amen and Ausar displayed surprisingly similar statistics. Amen had an average of 16.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, while Ausar averaged 16.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists.
Ausar Thompson vs Amen Thompson @OvertimeElite stats #Pistons #Rockets pic.twitter.com/da1mv2WU7d
— Pistons Talk (@Pistons__Talk) June 29, 2023
As for their shooting ability, Amen had a higher field goal percentage of 56.6% compared to Ausar’s 48.1%. But when it came to three-pointers, Ausar led with 29.8%, while Amen trailed slightly behind with 25.0%. The free throw percentages were almost similar, with Amen at 65.6% and Ausar at 66.2%.
In the NBA’s pre-season, their performance is close too. Amen averaged just over 11 points in three games with the Rockets, while Ausar managed an average of 10 points in two games with the Pistons.
What are Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson’s strengths and weaknesses?
Amen’s game displays evident inspiration from NBA legends like LeBron James and Ja Morant. With an explosive athletic capability coupled with great passing instincts, Amen possesses a unique fearlessness that drives him to the rim. His ability to handle the ball, especially in pick-and-roll situations, paired with his impressive 6-foot-7-inch stature, allows him to oversee defenses and make innovative passes.
Defensively, he’s using his build to guard varied positions and disrupt passing lanes. However, Amen’s inconsistent jump shot is reflected in his 25.0% three-point percentage and 65.6% free throw stats during the OTE season. Additionally, the fast-paced nature of the OTE league casts some shadows over how his game will adapt to the NBA‘s half-court style.
Ausar Thompson shares several strengths with his brother. A young athlete with sharp court vision, Ausar is recognized for his defense. Often considered the more physically stronger twin, his defensive tactics are a level above.
However, his position as a wing in comparison to Amen’s role as a primary ball handler provides significant help in his shooting capability. With 29.8% in three-pointers and 66.2% in free throws during the OTE season, his numbers are decent but still leave room for improvement.
As the NBA season progresses, we will get a clearer picture of the Thompson twins’ potential and performance. Their early stats are great, but it’s their consistency and adaptability that will define their place in the league. The basketball community is waiting to see how these twins make their futures in the NBA.