Amen Thompson, the Houston Rockets guard, has quickly established himself as a key player since entering the NBA. Drafted fourth overall in 2023 from the Overtime Elite Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, Thompson has consistently demonstrated strong contributions on both ends of the court. Now in his third professional season, he has earned NBA All-Rookie Team honors in 2023-24 and was named to the 2024-25 All-Defensive First Team.
Through 188 career games before Monday’s matchup, Thompson has averaged 13.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. This 2025-26 season in particular has been impressive, with the 23-year-old posting an average of 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.5 steals across 57 appearances. His consistent play has been a crucial factor in the Rockets’ rise to third place in the Western Conference standings.
Details of Thompson’s Ankle Injury During Game
During the fourth quarter of Monday night’s game against the Washington Wizards, Thompson left the floor and headed to the locker room after reportedly grabbing his right ankle while sitting on the bench. He did not return to the game, which Houston won 123-118. Before exiting, he had delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 22 points on 10-of-15 shooting, along with 12 rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka later provided an update on Thompson’s condition. As reported by Houston Chronicle journalist Varun Shankar,
“Amen rolled his ankle in the fourth quarter per Udoka, [to be determined] on severity.”
Thompson has proven dependable this season, with only two missed games prior to this injury, one due to a quad issue the previous Wednesday. The team will monitor his recovery closely as they prepare for upcoming matchups.
Impact on Rockets’ Season and Next Steps
The Rockets currently hold a 38-22 record and head into their next game at home against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcast on Amazon Prime Video. Thompson’s injury introduces uncertainty around the team’s lineup as they seek to maintain momentum in the competitive Western Conference.
Given Thompson’s vital role in Houston’s recent success, the severity of his ankle injury and timeline for return remain important factors. The Rockets organization will provide further medical updates as evaluations continue. Fans and analysts alike recognize that Thompson’s health will play a significant part in Houston’s playoff positioning and overall outlook for the remainder of the season.
Amen Thompson just walked to the locker room after checking out of the game. Looked like he was reaching down at his right ankle while he was on the bench.
— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) March 3, 2026
