He started playing at age eight, eventually turning fully toward basketball by 2012, joining Giresun University’s youth system (2012–2014) before moving to Bandırma as a 12-year-old to further his training—living away from family in a facility with older players.

Development In Turkish League

• Signed with Banvit/Bandırma youth system in 2014, quickly rising through the ranks. By 2018–19, he was Turkish Youth League MVP and champions with Banvit U19 team.
• At age 18, in the 2020–21 season, he became the youngest-ever MVP of the Turkish Basketball Super League, averaging around 19 pts, 9 rebounds, and strong efficiency.

NBA Entry And Rookie Season

• Drafted 16th overall in 2021 by the Oklahoma City Thunder and immediately traded to the Houston Rockets.
• In his rookie campaign (2021–22), he earned Western Conference Rookie of the Month (March) and made NBA All-Rookie Second Team.

Rise In The NBA

• 2022–23 season: solid sophomore surge, averaging 15 pts, 9 rebounds, 3.9 assists.
• 2023–24 season marked his breakout—averaging 21.1 pts, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, which led to a $185M rookie extension in October 2024

First NBA All‑Star And Franchise Leader

• In 2025, Şengün was selected as an NBA All-Star, becoming Houston’s first since Harden and Westbrook in 2020. He helped anchor the Rockets to a playoff berth as a top young cornerstone.
• He has broken franchise history as the youngest Rocket to reach 2,000+ points, 1,000+ rebounds, and 500+ assists—accomplished before his 22nd birthday.

Personal Resilience And Character

• Overcame serious childhood injuries, including being hit by a car twice and surviving surgeries—events that left lasting scars but fueled his resilience.
• His name reflects his spirit: “Alperen” can be translated as “Spiritual warrior”, and “Şengün” means “Happy day”.

Style And Legacy

• At 6’11”, about 243 lbs, he blends classic post scoring with elite passing ability, polished by drop-steps, spins, and court vision—drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokić, Sabonis, Love, and Garnett.
• Especially revered in Turkey, Şengün has become a national icon—dubbed the “Michael Jordan of Turkey” for his inspiring journey and rapid rise.

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Career Summary

Phase	Milestone Highlights
Youth in Turkey	Life-changing injuries; moved to Bandırma; Turkish youth MVP
Turkish League	Youngest BSL MVP in 2020–21; standout stats
NBA Entry	16th pick in 2021, traded to Rockets
Rookie Season	All-Rookie Second Team; Rookie of the Month
Emerging Star	Breakout in 2023–24; major contract
All-Star 2025	First Rockets All-Star since 2020
Franchise Records	Youngest in franchise history across key milestones

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Alperen Şengün’s story is one of perseverance, skill development, and breaking boundaries—from surviving serious childhood adversity to becoming a leader on and off the court. I’d be happy to share more about his international play, specific games, or his role in Turkey’s national team