Metta Sandiford-Artest sees shades of Pau Gasol in Alperen Sengun. Speaking on Scoop B Radio, the former NBA champion praised the Houston Rockets star, highlighting his skill and impact.
“It’s the kid from the Rockets, Alperen Sengun,” Sandiford-Artest told NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. “The big center! I like him.”
Gasol, a Hall of Famer and two-time NBA champion, made his mark as one of the league’s most skilled seven-footers. His ability to blend size, footwork, and passing made him a vital piece of the Lakers’ championship success.
Sengun has been making his own history. This month, he became just the second Turkish player to earn an NBA All-Star selection, following Mehmet Okur in 2007. His impact has helped the Rockets surge to second place in the Western Conference with a 32-15 record.
The 22-year-old center has been dominant, averaging 19.1 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. His combination of post play, vision, and scoring ability has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s most versatile big men.
Under the leadership of head coach Ime Udoka, Sengun has taken a leap this season. He has become the focal point of Houston’s offense, often operating as a playmaker from the post, much like Gasol did during his Lakers tenure.
The praise from Sandiford-Artest adds to the growing recognition Sengun is receiving across the league. As he continues to develop, the comparisons to Gasol may only become stronger.
