HOUSTON – When Turkish phenom Alperen Sengun was drafted 16th overall by the Houston Rockets two years ago, he only knew bits and pieces of the English language. Needing a translator for most of his rookie season, it was going to be tough for Sengun to learn a new language quickly in his new home of the United States.
In just his third season, Sengun is fluent in the English language, answering questions clearly and concisely during interviews. Especially on his appearance in the newest episode Podcast P with Paul George, presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment.
Sengun's NBA Draft Experience
During one of their segments, Sengun talked candidly about his entire process of meeting Adam Silver at the podium of the 2021 NBA draft.
“I really [messed] up actually, because you know they [his agent] were saying hug him [Adam Silver] . Be comfy next to him. I'm taking my cap and I go next to him,” Sengun said. “He wanted to hug me but I just hold his hand. I was so nervous, I didn't know how to talk because I didn't know English at that time.”
Most NBA draft picks set their feet as they approach and hug the commissioner to show appreciation into the NBA draft when their name is called. Sengun on the other hand, was too nervous to even embrace him. He then goes on to mention Silver's reaction:
“He [Silver] was so nice. He was telling me ‘I'm sorry I don't know Turkish, I don't know how to talk with you.' I said, no problem.”
“It wasn't personal Mr. Silver,” George jokingly added on the podcast.
Draft Trade To Houston
Right after Sengun was drafted, the Houston Rockets immediately traded for the big man, to which he appeared comically overjoyed on the podcast. He then goes on to talk about his reaction on the trade to Houston.
“Did you [Sengun] know you were going to be traded?”
“No, I didn't know actually,” Sengun said. “I thought I was going to go before 10th. It was like Orlando, Sacramento, like 8, 9, we passed that, and they said Washington, Charlotte were other teams. I knew that they were not going to pick me because I didn't work out with them. I didn't even work out with Houston actually.”
Regardless, his agent kept telling him that Houston was interested. Still, Sengun wanted to be a high pick and wasn't keen on going to OKC due to a difficult workout there. However, he was surprised and happy when he learned about the trade to Houston because it offered more excitement and had a much more diverse East European community, making him feel more at ease.
“I didn't even know anything about Houston. I didn't even talk or [workout] with them.” Sengun said. “My agent kept telling me OKC is so boring; I hope you're not going over there.”
“I was literally happy because there's something to do over there,” Sengun said of being dealt to the Rockets. “There's a lot of Turkish people over there too, which helped me a lot.”
“Yeah, I don't think you'll find many Turkish people in Oklahoma,” George added.
George would probably know a thing or two about this. The veteran All-Star played a couple of seasons for the Oklahoma City Thunder between 2017-2019, reaching the playoffs both times, and statistically had the best scoring season of his career, averaging 28.9 points on 43.8% shooting in 77 games.
People recall the infamous video of George formally announcing to re-sign with Oklahoma during an appearance at a house party in Oklahoma City hosted by teammate Russell Westbrook.
Will There Be An Impact?
Sengun's comments about feeling overjoyed starting his NBA career in Houston solidifies the Rockets fanbase even more. This surely heightens expectations for Sengun's impact both on and off the court, given his positive attitude towards the team and the city. Additionally, Sengun's mention of the Turkish community brings more awareness to the city in Houston as one of the most diverse places to live in the United States.
In three seasons, Rockets fans completely adore the 21-year old. His All-Star level numbers this season are a key reason Houston is among one of the toughest teams to be in the league.
On the other hand, loyalty runs deep, especially from the opposition. Any comment from a player, whether it's in favor of or against a particular team, has the power to evoke strong emotions among fans, especially in Oklahoma City.
While delivered in a lighthearted manner, Sengun's comments might have initially ruffled some feathers from the OKC faithful. Rockets will have to wait until February 27th, 2024 to face the Thunder on the road.
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