Alperen Sengun is in the midst of a breakout season that few would could have predicted so early in his career. At just 21-years-old he ranks 17th in the NBA in rebounds and 36th in the points per game. He is an efficient shooter and has already proven he can play sold defense and involve his teammates when necessary. Not bad considering the young man is only in his third season in the NBA.
The Houston Rockets" center had another big game on Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He finished with 23 points, 11 rebounds and six assists shooting 8-13 from the field on the night. Despite the Rockets losing 95-112, it was a dominant showing from Sengun.
The performance caught the eye of another well-known center with three-time NBA MVP Shaquille O"Neil heaping praise on the rising star.
“He reminds me of a young Pau Gasol…I really like this guy. I would like to see him on a better team," said Shaq.
"[Alperen Sengun] reminds me of a young Pau Gasol… I’d like to see him on a better team."
— Shaq 🗣️
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 28, 2024
This season, Sengun is averaging 21.1 points, 9.2 rebounds, 4.9 assists and shooting 54 percent from the field.
NBA teams that passed on Sengun in the 2021 NBA draft may be regretting that decision. The Turkish international was the 16th overall pick, moving to the United States from Turkish club Beşiktaş.
Although the Rockets (25-33) are struggling, Trading Sengun at this stage of his career would not be a wise move for an organization that has a lot of young talent. An lucrative extension seems more likely for the player in the near future.
