Oakland's Twin Prodigies Rewrite NBA Draft Records
When Amen and Ausar Thompson heard their names called back-to-back in the 2023 NBA Draft, fans weren't just witnessing a feel-good story—they were watching history. Amen, going fourth to the Houston Rockets, and Ausar, snagged fifth by the Detroit Pistons, became the first twins ever picked in the top five. This wasn't just a quirky family milestone; it was the kind of moment that sends text groups buzzing and sports forums lighting up across the country.
These Thompson twins were already well-known from their time with Overtime Elite's City Reapers. That’s not your traditional college route; we're talking about a new-age league designed for elite high school prospects to earn, develop, and get NBA-ready. The twins delivered on the hype, even capping their City Reapers run with a championship clinched by—you guessed it—a thrilling, last-second assist from Amen to his brother Ausar in Game 3. It was a made-for-TV moment that foreshadowed their knack for high-pressure plays.
Now 22, both brothers have quickly become more than just draft trivia. Amen, with the Rockets, isn’t just filling out the roster—he’s a centerpiece. This season, he played a big role in Houston’s push into the playoffs, going toe-to-toe with the Golden State Warriors. That’s a leap most young players don’t make in a couple years, but Rockets coach Jalen Bickerstaff says Amen’s combination of length, speed, and vision is just different. Meanwhile, Ausar’s arrival in Detroit has been just as impactful. The Pistons snapped out of a brutal fifteen-game postseason losing streak, with Ausar’s energy and defense breathing new life into the team.
Sibling Rivalry Fuels Success for Amen and Ausar
On most days, the Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson relationship is a mix of encouragement, banter, and one-upping. Amen was quick to rib Ausar over Detroit’s 14-win season last year, poking fun at their struggles. Ausar, smiling, now points out that both twins have tasted playoff action—something neither saw coming so fast. It’s family competition at its best: all heart, but no holding back.
Their games, although similar, have carved out unique identities. Amen thrives as a fast-paced playmaker, using his athleticism to push the Rockets' tempo and keep defenders guessing. He’s racked up highlight-reel dimes and some nail-biting finishes in crunch time. Ausar, on the other hand, is a defensive anchor for Detroit, a guy who handles tough assignments and isn’t shy when it matters most. Pistons head coach Monty Williams highlights Ausar’s muscle, his ability to guard multiple positions, and his refusal to back down—traits that have transformed a young roster hungry for change.
Their quick leap—from City Reapers champions to headline-grabbing NBA stars—has redefined what’s possible for young prospects outside the college system. And for Oakland, it’s a front-row seat to the rise of two homegrown stars who aren’t just chasing personal glory, but are lifting their new cities along for the ride. No wonder their story has everyone—from teachers at their old schools to NBA veterans—paying attention. And as the twins keep pushing each other, you get the feeling they’re just getting started.
