The first words of French draftees in their new franchises

NBA - Five of the six French draftees were introduced to their new franchises (except Mohamed Diawara, who won't be in the NBA next season). An opportunity to take their first steps in the NBA and share their first words with their new fans, just days before Summer League.

By@Tom Compayrot

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The first words of French draftees in their new franchises

Photo Credit : Brad Penner - Imagn Images

Noa Essengue: « A legendary franchise »

The highest-drafted Frenchman this year wasted no time joining his new home. Noa Essengue (6’9″, 18) joined Chicago right after being drafted 12th. Between touring the Bulls’ facilities with his future teammate – and competitor – Matas Buzelis and a boat ride on Lake Michigan, the Orleans native spoke to local media to introduce himself. He mentioned being in contact with local legend Joakim Noah, and expressed excitement about joining « a legendary franchise with a great history and many championships. »

About joining a young team with a fast-paced style? « That’s the style of play I love and want. » The 18-year-old power forward aims to primarily contribute with his finishing at the rim, while focusing on improving his 3-point shooting (24.3% this season).

Joan Beringer, already mentored by Rudy Gobert

Here’s another Frenchman discovering the northern United States. Joan Beringer (6’11 », 18)‘s integration with the Minnesota Timberwolves was naturally facilitated by his future mentor Rudy Gobert. Gobert called his young compatriot right after being drafted 17th, and several times after, to welcome him and offer advice. Still amazed in New York during the draft days, Beringer kept smiling upon arriving in Minneapolis with fellow rookie center Rocco Zikarsky.

« You can’t realize what you’re experiencing, it’s a dream come true, an incredible feeling. During the draft, I was trying not to cry… And when I landed, many fans wrote me nice messages » described the Alsatian on the franchise’s social media. The team’s President Tim Connelly considers him « one of the most unique players ever observed » who « has developed at an unprecedented rate. »

Welcome, Joan! 💙

[Rest of content translated following same pattern…]

Tom Compayrot

Tom Compayrot a rejoint BeBasket en novembre 2023, où il suit de près l’actualité de la NBA. Curieux et rigoureux, il s’intéresse autant aux stars qu’aux rôles clés dans l’ombre, avec l’envie de raconter ce qui fait vibrer la ligue au quotidien. Récemment, il s’est rendu aux Etats-Unis pour couvrir la Draft NBA 2025 sur place et nous faire vivre cet événement majeur de l’intérieur.

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