‘I want to be the best’: Basketball rising star Alperen Sengun shares ambitions for future

According to The Athletic, Alperen Sengun, the Houston Rockets’ rising star, recently sat down for an interview with Sam Amick. In the conversation, Sengun shared insights into his journey to the NBA, his outstanding performances, and his ambitions for the future.

The 22-year-old, known for his leadership on the court and remarkable basketball IQ, reflected on his childhood in Giresun, Türkiye, his passion for basketball and the challenges he faced along the way.

From Giresun to the NBA: Overcoming early struggles

Sengun, now in his fourth season with the Rockets, has played a pivotal role in his team’s rise to the second spot in the Western Conference. However, his journey was not without its struggles. In the interview, Sengun recalled the injuries he sustained during his childhood. “I have injuries everywhere—my arms, my knees. I have scars from climbing and playing outside,” he said, recounting a time when he was hit by a car twice and almost died. “I’ve experienced a lot of tough situations.”

Despite these hardships, Sengun’s determination to succeed in basketball remained strong. “And now I play every game,” he added, laughing at the irony of it all.

Early Days: Giresun and Bandirma

Alperen Sengun’s basketball journey began at a young age, with his first coach being a childhood friend of his father. He shared stories of how his coach had spent many years working in the United States before returning to Türkiye with the goal of teaching basketball. “He wanted to start a basketball school here. He had three kids, and he couldn’t see them growing up while in America,” Sengun explained.

When he was 12 years old, Sengun moved to Bandirma to join a youth basketball team at a well-known Turkish club.

“I lived far from my family. I couldn’t see them often. We stayed in a facility with 50 players, some of whom were five years older than me,” he recalled. Although it was a tough experience, it helped shape his love for basketball.

It was really hard. I would cry every day, wanting to be with my family, but I knew I had to keep going for my future.

Alperen Sengun

Rising through ranks: From Besiktas to NBA

Alperen Sengun’s hard work paid off when he was named the MVP of the Basketball Super League in Türkiye, a prestigious achievement in one of the strongest domestic leagues in Europe. His performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, and in 2021, he declared for the NBA Draft. The Houston Rockets selected him with the 16th pick, marking the start of his professional career in the NBA.

“At that time, we didn’t have anything like this. But I knew it was coming, and we had a great team,” Sengun said about the team’s rise.

Since Ime [Udoka] and his staff arrived, everything has changed.

Alperen Sengun

On his comparisons to Nikola Jokic

Throughout his career, Alperen Sengun has often been compared to NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, especially for his unique style of play.

Reflecting on these comparisons, Alperen Sengun stated, “I used to like it, but now I have my own game. I take some moves from Jokic and Dirk [Nowitzki], but I’m creating my own path.” While these comparisons continue, Alperen Sengun remains focused on developing his own style and contributing to his team’s success.

Sengun reflecting on growth and future

Looking back on his journey, Alperen Sengun expressed how much he has grown and his goals for the future. “I never imagined being in the NBA and being one of the best players. But ambition pushed me,” he said.

I want to be the best. I want to make my family proud and be the best version of myself.

Alperen Sengun

As for his future, Sengun continues to push himself daily. “I’m still working hard every day. I’m going to be the best,” he confidently stated.

Sengun’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the drive to overcome challenges. With a bright future ahead, his journey continues to inspire others, proving that with perseverance, anything is possible.