The Atlanta Hawks are in a pivotal phase of their franchise’s development, looking to build a competitive roster around star point guard Trae Young while improving team chemistry, defense, and overall depth.
With that in mind, you can’t overlook the fact that they will most likely have Joan Beringer available to select him with the 22nd pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Joan Beringer: A Great Fit for Atlanta Hawks
The 18-year-old French center is playing his rookie season in the Adriatic League, where he has already made a name for himself. His skills, leadership and basketball IQ make him a top prospect that the Hawks must at least consider.
College Sports Network projects Beringer to be the No. 22 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His scout report highlights his potential to be a good complement to Hawk star Trae Young:
“At 6’10”, Beringer is best on defense at this point in his career. He’s very explosive and athletic around the rim with the ability to finish lobs and block shots, presumably very early into his career. He doesn’t have a particularly high ceiling, but he could be a terrific pick-and-roll partner for Hawks star point guard Trae Young.”
Joan Beringer leads the Adriatic League in block percentage, making a significant impact with his 7’5 wingspan, outstanding timing, and mobility switching on the perimeter and covering ground.
He says he only picked up a basketball for the first time in September 2021. https://t.co/qnZO0vnNqx pic.twitter.com/zPOLu0q2Xw
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 25, 2025
Beringer has demonstrated a deep understanding of the game with an outstanding ability to read defenses, make smart plays and adapt to different scenarios. He fits the Hawks’ need for high-IQ contributors perfectly. Atlanta thrives on up-tempo, dynamic basketball, and Beringer’s versatility would allow him to fit seamlessly into their system.
On the other hand, one of the Hawks’ biggest weaknesses in recent years has been their inconsistent defense. Beringer’s background suggests a strong defensive acumen with an emphasis on fundamentals, communication and hustle, which could help shore up Atlanta’s perimeter and interior defense, making them a more complete team.
Beringer made his debut in the current 2024-2025 season with the Cedevita Olimpija of the Adriatic League. He has played 30 league games, and although he has not been an uncontested starter, he has averaged 18.3 minutes per game.
Offensively, he has not scored many points (4.9 per game), but his shooting percentage on two-point shots is excellent (59.4%). He has not attempted any 3-point shots and his free throw percentage is 60%.
However, his main strength is defense and he has shown it by grabbing 124 rebounds, 84 of them (67.74%) on the defensive end. He also has 15 steals and 44 blocks, an impressive record for a player his age.
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Beringer has also played 17 EuroCup (continental tournament) games, in which he added another 94 rebounds and 20 blocks, another example of his exceptional defensive potential.
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