By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Kevin Durant formally opened his 18th NBA campaign during preseason media day on Monday. The press conference included praise of Alperen Sengun.
“I have played with some bigs that are great at what they do, great role-playing bigs that can guard or post, that could set great screens, that can finish over the rim, that can block shots, but I think Alpi can pretty much do a little bit of all of that and more, but also handle the ball as a guard in the perimeter,” he described the 23-year-old Turkish center of the Houston Rockets.
The two-time NBA champion followed Sengun in EuroBasket 2025 during the offseason, besides heading to the Rockets via trade and nearing a deal on a contract extension.
“It’s always good when you get to play in that setting,” he referred to his new teammate representing his country in the recent FIBA tournament, “It’s a tough brand of basketball. It’s a slower pace. You really have to play a half-court game in the EuroBasket. That makes you a better player. I think coming into year five and going through a playoff series, I think all of those experiences make a better and more confident player.”
“I am really excited to play with him,” Sengun answered a question about Durant joining the Rockets, “I’m looking forward to working with him, learn from him, and winning games together.”
From EuroBasket to Houston
Averaging 21.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per contest in EuroBasket, the Giresun native went from capturing a silver medal to being named on the All-Star Five of the tournament.
“I had so much freedom. Coach was giving that to me. And even the players were telling me. It was my country, my national team. It’s always a different job there compared to here,” he described his assignment with the team guided by Ergin Ataman.
“EuroBasket was kind of practice for me to come over here and have a huge season. I was testing what I can do over there. And at the same time win the games,” he added.
A losing effort in the gold-medal game opposite Germany snapped a perfect eight-game streak across pool play and the knockout stage.
“Being there and getting all the love from Turkiye. Turkiye is a big country, and the people are hungry for success from the national teams. I’m glad we gave them that. I wish we had won the title, but God doesn’t give everything at once,” said Sengun, “We need to be patient. We have a World Cup in two years, so hopefully we can do a better job there and make our country proud again.”