Alperen Sengun shines brighter than MVP Joel Embiid in Furkan Korkmaz’s eyes
In a surprising twist, a Houston Rockets All-Star has already outshone a recent league MVP in the eyes of a fellow national team member. According to Eurohoops Turkey, Furkan Korkmaz, the former Philadelphia 76ers swingman, asserts that Rockets center Alperen Sengun is now the best player he has ever shared the court with. This statement carries significant weight, especially considering Korkmaz spent all seven years of his NBA career playing alongside Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP, and had the privilege of overlapping with future Hall of Famer Jimmy Butler.
Aiming for EuroBasket Glory
Korkmaz and Sengun are currently focused on achieving success for their homeland, Turkey, as they compete for a medal in the EuroBasket tournament. Their journey has already taken them to the semifinals, where they will face off against the formidable Greek national team, led by the Antetokounmpo brothers—Giannis and Thanasis—this Friday. The stakes are high, and both players are eager to make their mark on this prestigious stage.
Sengun’s Ascendance in Houston
Meanwhile, the Rockets are undergoing a significant transformation this summer. With key acquisitions including Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, Clint Capela, and Josh Okogie, the team is poised to bolster its emerging core. This core features Sengun, who has been making waves as a rising star, alongside the All-Defensive small forward Amen Thompson, power forward Jabari Smith Jr., and forward Tari Eason. Additionally, Houston has secured a top 2024 lottery pick in Reed Sheppard, complemented by the experience of veteran former All-Star Fred VanVleet.
The Rockets had a commendable season last year, finishing with a 52-30 record and securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. With these new additions, the team appears ready to solidify its place among the elite in the West. Korkmaz’s glowing endorsement of Sengun reflects not only the player’s talent but also the optimism surrounding Houston’s future as they aim to compete at the highest levels of the NBA.
As the EuroBasket tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Sengun and Korkmaz as they strive for glory while also setting the stage for the next chapter of their careers in the NBA.
