Alperen Sengun is averaging a near double-double with 21 points and 9.5 rebounds per game this season, yet he wasn’t originally selected for the NBA All-Star Game. Now, after Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had to withdraw due to a strained abdominal muscle, Sengun gets his chance to shine on the big stage. Can the Turkish center prove he belongs among the league’s elite?
Key Takeaways
- Alperen Sengun will replace Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the World team for the NBA All-Star Game, marking his first All-Star selection.
- Sengun is averaging 21 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game for the Houston Rockets this season.
- Kawhi Leonard was also added to the All-Star roster to ensure the U.S. team had the minimum required number of players.
- The All-Star Game format will feature a round-robin tournament between two U.S. teams and one World team, with each game lasting 12 minutes.
Why Did Sengun Deserve the All-Star Nod?
Alperen Sengun’s stellar play this season made him a strong candidate for an All-Star selection. Currently, he’s putting up impressive numbers, averaging 21 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.9 assists while shooting 53.7% from the field for the Houston Rockets. His player efficiency rating (PER) of 22.1 ranks him among some of the NBA’s best, showcasing his all-around impact on the court. He has been a key factor in the Rockets’ improved performance. While the Rockets’ record isn’t spectacular, currently at 25-30 as of February 26, 2026, Sengun’s individual brilliance has been undeniable. “Sengun has taken a massive leap this year, showcasing elite passing skills for a big man to go along with his scoring and rebounding,” said ESPN analyst Zach Lowe on a recent podcast. His ability to score in the post, facilitate for his teammates, and control the boards makes him a unique and valuable player.
How Will the All-Star Game Format Impact Sengun?
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game features a unique format with two U.S. teams and one World team competing in a round-robin tournament. With each game lasting just 12 minutes, every possession will be crucial. This fast-paced environment could benefit Sengun, as his ability to make quick decisions and execute in the post will be valuable for the World team. He will join players like Luka Dončić and Kristaps Porziņģis on the World Team, creating a potentially potent offensive combination. The World team will need Sengun’s inside presence to complement their perimeter game. According to DraftKings, the odds for the World Team to win the All-Star game are currently +250, making them slight underdogs. The addition of Sengun certainly bolsters their chances.
Players/Teams Mentioned
- Alperen Sengun: Averaging 21 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game for the Houston Rockets in the 2025-2026 season.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Averaging 31.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025-2026 season before his injury.
- Houston Rockets: Currently with a record of 25-30 as of February 26, 2026.
- Kawhi Leonard: Averaging 24.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for the LA Clippers in the 2025-2026 season.
What This Means
- For Rockets fans: Sengun’s All-Star selection validates his status as a cornerstone of the franchise and suggests a bright future for the team, as evidenced by their improved record from last season.
- For fantasy basketball players: Sengun’s consistent production makes him a valuable asset, currently ranked as a top-20 player in most formats, per ESPN Fantasy projections.
- For NBA bettors: The World Team’s odds of +250 at DraftKings might be worth considering, given Sengun’s addition and the team’s overall talent.
