Hakeem Olajuwon praises Alperen Sengun: “Complete…”

Great feeling of Houston Rockets in the 2023/24 season, the young Turkish pivot Alperen Sengun earned praise from even the franchise’s biggest idol. Texas, Hakeem Olajuwon. One of the greatest players in the history of NBA praised the work the player has been doing, in addition to his evolution, during an interview with the “Houston Chronicle” newspaper. For the star, the 21-year-old athlete from Türkiye represents a mix between the new and old school of elite centers in the North American Basketball League.

“Man, since I played with him a little, I realized how complete he is. The way he plays, all his qualities, he has everything. And that’s what people are seeing now during the season. He is great with his footwork and movement. If you need to, Sengun can have the ball and build a play. Three-balls? He has the shot. He can finish at the basket with both hands, cutting to both sides. He also loves playing with his back to the basket. So, he is a complete, unique player”praised the two-time league champion with the Rockets (1994 and 1995).

The multiple facets of his game have elevated Sengun in comparisons between the best pivots today. His nickname since last year has been “Baby Jokic”, mainly due to his similar playing style to that of Nikola Jokicwhere he can be a great scorer and playmaker, earning a lot of praise from all analysts.

“Reading situations and understanding attacking opportunities is, finally, a big part of the job of a great player. You will always pay extra attention and need to find ways to still maintain your pace. He’s gotten a lot better at that. I see that he can understand when the defender is in trouble. He can be a very big threat, to the point of receiving double marking or greater proximity to the defender who is in coverage. So, Sengun can find passes from any angle to find a better placed player. Furthermore, he also makes much better use of one-on-one situations in which he has a clear advantage, whether it’s someone smaller or less mobile. He goes in there and does the work, in short”Olajuwon said.

“What I think, therefore, is that his game could succeed in any era. Because Sengun can adapt offensively to any style of play. He represents a perfect blend of new and old school of our position.”, completed the legend. In 2023/24, the Turk averages 21.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.