Alperen Sengun: I want to be an example for Turkish players in the NBA / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Besiktas center Alperen Sengun sat down with ESPN NBA draft expert Mike Schmitz for a virtual film scouting session. The 19-year-old Turkish international and 2021 League MVP opened up on his main strengths offensively and defensively, citing Nikola Jokic as his biggest influence.

Alperen Sengun

Position:PFAge:18Height:206 cmBirth place:TurkeyProfileNewsStatistics

"I'll try to create my own basketball in the NBA. I want to be an example for Turkish people, the way Nikola Jokic has been an example for me. I always studied Jokic and his moves. He's the No.1 in steals in the NBA and knows how to move on the court. Some say that I'm a player similar to him", Sengun said.

"When I can't pass, I want to play one-on-one, using my moves. When I get to the post, they double-team me and I wait for the right time to pass the ball. I have the ability to steal the ball and I try to have active hands. When I go to the NBA, I will become stronger. I used to play at '4', but this season I started playing at '5' and I want to improve on that position. My defensive timing is good, but I don't know if I can be a shot-blocker in the NBA. Maybe in the future. If I can't block the ball, I try to destroy my opponent's shots", he further elaborated.

"Before, my physical ability was not enough, but now I have a more athletic body. I don't have any particular feeling about rebounding. When they shoot, I know where the ball will be. It comes from inside. It's easy and comfortable to grab the ball with one hand. In Banvit, they were tapping the ball and we had to become tougher. I never step back in my life. I try to give my opponents a hard time. I was watching Shaquille O'neal and I've modeled some of my moves after him", Sengun went on to say.

In terms of his weaknesses, he mentioned that "at the beginning of the season, I wasn't trusting myself and my shot. I know that I need to shoot the ball better."

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