Alperen Şengün: Rising Star in the NBA, From Turkish Youth League Champion to All-Star

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Alperen Şengün, a 22-year-old Turkish center, has risen to prominence in the NBA. He was selected as a Western Conference All-Star reserve, averaging 19 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game. Şengün has set multiple records, including the youngest player to achieve a triple-double and 30+ points, 15+ rebounds, and five+ steals in a game.

Alperen Şengün, born on July 25, 2002, in Giresun, Turkey, has become a sensation in the NBA. His journey from the Turkish Youth League to the All-Star Game is nothing short of remarkable. Şengün joined the Houston Rockets in the 2021 NBA draft and quickly made a name for himself.
In the 2022-2023 season, Şengün achieved several milestones. He recorded his first career triple-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists against the Sacramento Kings. He also became the youngest player in Rockets history to record at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in a game, breaking Hakeem Olajuwon’s record set in 1984. Additionally, Şengün became the youngest center in NBA history to record multiple triple-doubles before turning 21 years old.
This season, Şengün has continued to impress. He led the Rockets to a 3-1 record in January 2024 and was awarded his first NBA Player of the Week award. On January 30, 2025, he was selected as a reserve for the Western Conference All-Star Game, joining an elite group of players averaging at least 19 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game.
Şengün’s selection as an All-Star marks a significant personal accomplishment and highlights the rising success of the Houston Rockets. His performance will be crucial as the team aims to climb higher in the NBA hierarchy.


1. What are Alperen Şengün’s career highlights?
Answer: Şengün has achieved several records, including the youngest player to record a triple-double, 30+ points, and 15+ rebounds in a game. He also became the youngest center to record multiple triple-doubles before turning 21.

2. How has Alperen Şengün contributed to the Houston Rockets?
Answer: Şengün has significantly improved the Rockets’ performance. He averages 19 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game, and the team is plus-6.4 points better per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

3. What is Alperen Şengün’s All-Star selection significance?
Answer: His All-Star selection is a major personal accomplishment and highlights the Rockets’ rising success. It marks the latest highlight in Houston’s ascending rebuild.

4. How has Alperen Şengün impacted the team’s defense?
Answer: The Rockets rank in the 77th percentile in defense when Şengün is on the floor, compared to the 34th percentile last season.

5. What are Alperen Şengün’s future goals?
Answer: Şengün aims to continue his impressive performance and help the Rockets climb higher in the NBA hierarchy. His performance in April and May will be crucial for the team’s playoff prospects.


Alperen Şengün’s rapid rise to All-Star status is a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. His achievements not only highlight his individual success but also reflect the growing strength of the Houston Rockets. As the team continues to rise, Şengün’s performance will be pivotal in determining their future in the NBA.


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