When it comes to basketball, the NBA is the pinnacle of the sport. The league boasts some of the greatest players in history, and the allure of scoring 50 points in a game alongside legends like LeBron James is undeniably enticing. However, Houston Rockets rookie Alperen Sengun recently challenged the conventional wisdom that scoring in the NBA is easier than in Europe.
A recent tweet by Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) sheds light on the challenges faced by young international players transitioning to the NBA.
The tweet reads:
Alperen Sengun admits it’s harder to score in the NBA than Europe: ‘Before you go to the NBA, you think, LeBron scores 50, an unknown player scores 50. You think it’s easier to score there. But when you get there, it’s not like that. I used to say the same, ‘Europe is harder, America is different.’ But when you go there, you see it. Here, there are more set plays. There, it’s more one-on-one and fast break plays.’
Alperen Sengun Opens Admits That It is Harder To Score in The NBA Than in Europe- “Before You Go To The NBA You Think”
Alperen Sengun admits it’s harder to score in the NBA than Europe:
“Before you go to the NBA, you think, LeBron scores 50, an unknown player scores 50. You think it’s easier to score there. But when you get there, it’s not like that. I used to say the same, ‘Europe is harder,… pic.twitter.com/aI8GhvqqkE
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 21, 2024
Sengun’s comments highlight the significant differences between the NBA and European leagues like the EuroLeague. Let’s delve deeper into his observations and explore the unique challenges of scoring in the NBA.
The Perception vs. Reality
Alperen Sengun’s comments shed light on the stark contrast between perception and reality. Before making the leap to the NBA, many European players envision a league where scoring comes more naturally. After all, the NBA showcases high-scoring games, flashy dunks, and jaw-dropping performances. But as Alperen Sengun discovered, the truth is more nuanced.
Set Plays vs. One-on-One
In Europe, basketball often revolves around intricate team-oriented systems. Coaches emphasize ball movement, off-ball screens, and well-executed set plays. Players must read defenses, make quick decisions, and find open teammates. It’s a chess match on the hardwood.
In contrast, the NBA features a mix of structured plays and individual brilliance. While there are still set plays, the league also encourages one-on-one matchups. Superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry thrive in isolation situations. Fast breaks and transition plays add another layer of excitement.
Alperen Sengun’s journey from Europe to the NBA forced him to adapt. He realized that scoring wasn’t as straightforward as he initially thought. The speed of the game, the athleticism of opponents, and the strategic diversity challenged him. Yet, he also discovered opportunities—fast breaks, isolation plays, and the chance to showcase his offensive skills.
