The Houston Rockets have bolstered their roster by signing guard Tristen Newton to a two-way contract, as first reported by Jake Fischer of The People's Insider. The move was officially announced by the Rockets on Saturday, just ahead of their clash with the Dallas Mavericks.
From G League Standout to NBA Opportunity
Tristen Newton, a 24-year-old, 6-foot-5 wing player, earned this new NBA chance through sheer dominance in the NBA G League. After being waived by the Minnesota Timberwolves following preseason camp in mid-October, Newton joined the Iowa Wolves, their G League affiliate. There, he put up staggering numbers, averaging 26.8 points and 7.7 assists per game. His scoring prowess was on full display at the G League Tip-Off Tournament, where he led all players in scoring.
Newton's recent form has been particularly hot, scoring at least 30 points in four of his last seven outings. His overall G League stats for the season are impressive: 26.7 points, 7.5 assists, 4.8 rebounds, 3.1 three-pointers, and 1.9 steals across 36.1 minutes per contest. This represents a significant leap from his G League performance last season, where he averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 assists, and 6.5 rebounds.
A Proven Winner's Journey
Newton's basketball pedigree is built on a foundation of winning. He began his college career at East Carolina before transferring to the University of Connecticut. At UConn, he played a pivotal role in helping the Huskies win back-to-back national championships. His performances were so crucial that he was named the 2024 NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player.
His scoring ability is nothing new. As a senior at Burges High School in El Paso, Texas, he was the state's top scorer, putting up a remarkable 37.2 points per game during the 2018-19 season. Newton was selected by the Indiana Pacers with the 49th overall pick in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. He saw action in eight regular-season games as a rookie with the Pacers and Timberwolves before this new chapter with Houston.
Roster Implications and Long-Term View
To make room for Newton, the Rockets waived 2024 second-round pick Tyler Smith. Newton's two-way contract allows him to be active for up to 29 NBA games with the Rockets for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, while also spending time developing with their G League team.
While immediate playing time on a competitive Rockets squad may be limited, this deal represents a valuable long-term investment. The Rockets are rewarding Newton's exceptional development and giving him a platform to continue his growth. For Newton, it's a crucial second chance to prove he belongs in the NBA after showing he has vastly improved his game since his draft night.
