Alperen Sengun

The Turkish Nikola Jokic — a passing center who has become one of the most unique offensive players in the NBA.

Alperen Sengun was born in Bursa, Turkey in 2002. Houston Rockets selected him 16th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft after two seasons with Besiktas in Turkey. His career average of 20.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game by age 21 is unprecedented for a center of his age in NBA history. He was selected to his first All-Star game in 2025. His passing — described by coaches as approaching Jokic-level vision for a center — combined with post scoring, finishing at the rim and a developing perimeter game make him genuinely unique. He holds the Rockets franchise record for assists by a center. He represented Turkey internationally at multiple FIBA competitions. His physical style in the post — using screens, spins and misdirection rather than pure athleticism — recalls classic European centers of previous generations. He is considered one of the most likely players in the 2021 draft class to develop into an MVP-calibre player. The Houston Rockets, who have assembled one of the youngest rosters in the NBA, have built his future substantially around his development as his offensive anchor.

Skilled big man with excellent court vision, passing, and shooting range

Rising Turkish star establishing himself as elite NBA center

• All-Star 1x