Amen Thompson ecstatic after 1st game-winner: 'I feel like Kobe'

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 27: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets celebrates after scoring the game winning basket against the Boston Celtics during the second half at TD Garden on January 27, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Rockets defeat the Celtics 114-112.

Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Warning: Video contains coarse language

Amen Thompson reminded himself of a certain NBA legend after his first career game-winner.

The Houston Rockets forward said he felt like Kobe Bryant postgame after sinking a last-second shot to beat the Boston Celtics 114-112 on Monday.

Dillon Brooks: "I knew that mfer was going in."

Amen Thompson: "Oh that's my first game-winner. I feel like Kobe." pic.twitter.com/UHpCxQnwz4
— Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) January 28, 2025

Thompson was able to create separation from Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown before sinking a one-legged shot to win the contest. The 21-year-old said he was trying to get to the rim but pivoted to a different shot after Brown cut him off.

AMEN THOMPSON WINS IT FOR THE ROCKETS IN THE FINAL SECONDS 🚨🚨

ROCKETS MOVE TO 12-3 WITH AMEN IN THE STARTING LINEUP THIS SEASON! pic.twitter.com/v77x2RHkV2
— NBA (@NBA) January 28, 2025

He set a career high with 33 points while adding 10 rebounds and four assists.

Dillon Brooks led the Rockets in scoring with 36 points, tying a franchise record with 10 3-pointers.

Thompson is averaging 19.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 2.2 steals since taking over as the starter after Jabari Smith's hand injury. He recorded a 23-point, 14-rebound, 10-assist triple-double against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday.

The Rockets improved to 31-14 on the season. They face the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday.