HOUSTON -- In the first game (albeit a preseason exhibition) in his new home arena of Toyota Center, Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard quickly made his presence felt.

Sheppard, selected by Houston at No. 3 overall in the first round of the 2024 NBA draft, had 9 points and 2 steals in an impressive 11-minute stint in Tuesday's first half, which included making a 3-pointer and all four of his initial shots.

"I know it’s preseason, but this damn Reed Sheppard has my undivided attention," ESPN analyst and former NBA player Kendrick Perkins posted to X during the first half. "He’s going to be huge for the Rockets this season."

For the game, the 20-year-old sharpshooter out of Kentucky finished with 9 points, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 22 minutes.

Houston ultimately won the game, 118-98 (box score), to improve to 2-1 in preseason play. The Pelicans are 1-2.

Highlights are available below. Sheppard and the Rockets will finish out their 2024-25 preseason slate with Thursday's home game versus San Antonio, which tips off at 7:00 p.m. Central.

More: Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard thankful for guidance, mentoring of veteran Fred VanVleet

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: In NBA home debut, Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard makes immediate impact