Alperen Şengün, born on 25 July 2002, is a Turkish professional basketball player making waves in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a center for the Houston Rockets. His journey from the streets of Giresun, Turkey, to the NBA hardwood is marked by remarkable achievements and a display of immense talent.

>> Best betting sites (2024)

Quick Facts

Full Name	Alperen Sengun
Known As	Alperen Sengun
Nickname	NA
Birth Date	July 25, 2002
Birth Place	Giresun, Turkey
Religion	Christian
Nationality	Turkish
Education	Giresun University
Zodiac Sign	Leo
Father’s Name	Kamal Sengun
Mother’s Name	NA
Siblings	NA
Age	21 years
Height	6 ft 11 in (2.11 m)
Weight	243 lb (110 kg)
Eye Color	Dark Brown
Hair Color	Dark Brown
Profession	Basketball Player
Marital Status	Single
Wife	None
Children	None
Teams	Houston Rockets (NBA) Turkey
Achievements	Turkish League MVP (2021) Turkish Junior League champion (2019)
Net Worth	$1-$5 million USD
NBA Draft Pick	2021, 1st round, 16th overall (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Position	Center
League	NBA
Merch	NA
Social Media	Instagram Twitter

Alperen Şengün Early Life and Youth Career

Born in Giresun, Turkey, Şengün’s parents initially envisioned a career in swimming for him. However, inspired by his older brother’s love for basketball, Şengün pursued the sport at eight. Despite initially juggling basketball and swimming, practical constraints led him to choose basketball exclusively. His journey took off when he joined the youth teams of Giresun University, showcasing his budding talent on the court.

Banvit Years (2014–2019)

Şengün’s talent was recognized by coach Ahmet Gürgen during a youth sports festival, leading him to move to Bandırma to join the youth teams of Banvit (formerly Bandırma) and his time with Banvit’s juniors culminated in winning the Turkish Basketball Junior League championship in the 2018–19 season, where Şengün was also named the league’s MVP.

Professional Career

His professional career kicked off with Bandırma Kırmızı in the 2018–19 TBL season, where he showcased his skills, averaging double figures in points and demonstrating versatility on the court. Subsequent stints with Teksüt Bandırma and Beşiktaş further solidified his reputation as a rising star in Turkish basketball. His standout performance with Beşiktaş in the 2020–21 season, earning him the MVP title, set the stage for his entry into the NBA.

Houston Rockets (2021–present)

Selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA draft and later traded to the Houston Rockets, Şengün quickly impacted his rookie season. Despite initial projections of being a lottery pick, he fell to the 16th overall pick. Nonetheless, his performances on the court showcased his potential, with notable games like his debut against the Minnesota Timberwolves and a stellar 21-point, 14-rebound performance against the Los Angeles Lakers.

2022–23 Season

As a sophomore in the 2022–23 season, Şengün faced challenges but emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Despite not being initially named the starting center, injuries reshuffled the lineup, allowing him to shine. Notable performances include a career-high 33 points against the Los Angeles Lakers and recording his first triple-double against the Sacramento Kings.

NBA stars, including Nikola Jokić, Kevin Durant, Paul George, and Anthony Edwards, have praised Şengün’s talent and impact on the court. His unique skill set, combining scoring, passing, and rebounding, has set him apart in the league.

National Team Success

Şengün’s success extends beyond the NBA, as he has represented Turkey in various international competitions. From winning bronze at the FIBA Europe U-16 Championship to leading the Turkish junior under-18 national team to a silver medal, Şengün’s contributions to Turkish basketball are commendable. His recent involvement with the senior national team in EuroBasket 2022 showcased his ability to compete at the highest level.

Player Profile

Standing at an impressive 6 feet 11 inches, with a wingspan of 7 feet, Şengün plays with power and finesse. NBA analysts praise his “skilled” and “productive” style, noting his efficient low-post game and elite passing ability. While his defensive capabilities have been questioned, his on-ball matchups against other prominent men have been particularly compelling. Notably, his free-throw routine, where he speaks to the basketball, has become a discussion among NBA commentators.

Education

Even as his basketball career soared, Sengun prioritized education, enrolling at Giresun University. Balancing academics with the demands of professional basketball, he continues to pursue his studies, showcasing a commitment to both personal and professional growth.

Family

Beyond the basketball court, Sengun maintains a private life. While details about his family, mainly his father, Kamal Sengun, are available, information about his mother remains undisclosed. The 21-year-old athlete is reportedly single, focusing on his burgeoning career.

Net Worth 

As a professional athlete, Sengun’s contributions to the world of basketball have not only earned him recognition but also financial success. While precise details about his net worth remain undisclosed, estimates place it between $1 and $5 million as of 2023.