The basketball world has been buzzing about the rise of the Thompson twins in the NBA. Amen and Ausar Thompson, who were drafted in 2023, have already made their presence felt on the court and in the playoff spotlight. Their journey, impact, and mentality are reshaping what it means to be a young star in today’s league.

The Rise of the Thompson Twins in the NBA

Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets and his twin brother Ausar, who plays for the Detroit Pistons, began their NBA careers with high expectations. Both had impressive rookie seasons, quickly proving themselves as two-way threats. Amen earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, averaging 9.5 points, 2.6 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game. Ausar wasn’t far behind, averaging 8.8 points, 1.9 assists, and 6.4 rebounds.

In their second season, both brothers elevated their games. Amen increased his averages to 14.1 points, 3.8 assists, and 8.2 rebounds. Ausar, meanwhile, put up 10.1 points, 2.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, paired with a defensive reputation that made him a key stopper for Detroit. Their athleticism, skill, and determination have made the Thompson twins NBA mainstays (see full stats and analysis).

Making an Impact in the Playoffs

The 2024-25 playoffs saw both twins featured prominently. With their teams facing elimination, each brother stepped up as a difference maker. Ausar helped the Pistons force a Game 6 against the Knicks, holding Jalen Brunson to a quiet night and scoring a career-high 22 points himself. Amen powered Houston to a dominant win over Golden State, tallying 25 points, six rebounds, and five steals. Their defensive assignments were no small feat—Amen was in charge of slowing down Stephen Curry (see their dual impact), while Ausar shadowed Brunson.

Despite their team differences, a unique pattern emerged: every time the Pistons won, the Rockets followed with a win of their own in the next game, showcasing the connected drive shared by the twins (explore this playoff pattern).

Elite Defense and Unmatched Athleticism

One attribute that sets the Thompson twins apart is their elite defense. Amen recorded the league’s best defensive field goal percentage and is being considered for the NBA All-Defensive First Team. Both twins finished near the top of the league in steals per game, with Amen averaging 1.4 and Ausar 1.7.

Combine this with their remarkable athleticism, and it’s clear why they are regarded as two of the most exciting young players in the league. Their ability to rack up steals, blocks, and rebounds while also contributing efficiently on offense is a rare combination.

The Mentality Behind the Success

It’s not just the numbers that define the Thompson twins’ NBA journey. Their poise, unselfish play, and competitiveness have turned them into locker-room leaders at such a young age. They’ve brought a winning mentality to their squads, keeping them calm and focused even in high-pressure playoff moments.

The Future: What’s Next for Amen and Ausar?

With both brothers gaining postseason experience and thriving under pressure, NBA fans can expect even more from the Thompsons in coming seasons. Their synchronized rise has already been one of the league’s brightest stories. If they continue on this trajectory, it’s only a matter of time before they become household names and perennial All-Stars.

In summary, Amen and Ausar are not just great individually—they are redefining what it means to be young, athletic, and impactful in the NBA. Keep an eye on the Thompson twins NBA journey as they continue to make history.