Projected Lottery Pick Frenchman Noa Essengue Gains Major Ground, Having The Best Game Of His Season In the German BBL Playoffs.
The Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) is Germany’s top basketball league. It’s known for developing great players and teams, and it has become increasingly popular, attracting fans and top athletes from around the world.
When EuroLeague powerhouse ALBA Berlin locked horns with Ratiopharm Ulm in a recent playoff game, Essengue, an 18-year-old Frenchman, had an impressive performance — scoring 21 points (13/13 FT), along with 4 rebounds, 2 steals, and 3 assists. The 6’11” forward’s standout display has significantly increased the hype surrounding him.
Noa Essengue and the Game
Essengue was born on December 18, 2006. He is the second-youngest prospect in the 2025 draft class, just three days older than Duke’s top prospect, Cooper Flagg. As a power forward, he possesses the physical tools that NBA teams covet.
Projected lottery pick Noa Essengue had his best game of the season in a win over Euroleague team Alba Berlin in the German BBL playoffs. 21 points (13-13 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals for the 6’11, 18-year old French power forward. pic.twitter.com/HA6syDHEaN
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 18, 2025
His basketball IQ shines through his ability to make smart passes, cut decisively, finish efficiently, and defend well. However, he still needs to improve his ball-handling and decision-making under pressure.
What a Show in the Playoffs
Putting on a dominant performance in the playoffs isn’t easy — especially for young players — but Essengue delivered a show-stopping performance on May 17, 2025. He played beyond his years, showcasing poise and confidence like a seasoned professional.
Essengue finished with 21 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and only 1 turnover, shooting an efficient 4-of-5 from the field and a perfect 13-of-13 from the free-throw line — a truly spectacular stat line. Some analysts and fans have called it the game of the season. Without question, Essengue was the star of the night.
A Special Game for Ulm and Noa
The opponent was one of the best in the BBL — ALBA Berlin. For Ulm, it was a major victory over a top-tier team known for its consistent excellence.
Essengue showcased a variety of finishes, smart decision-making inside and outside the paint, and impressive defensive instincts. Using his length and athleticism, he disrupted ALBA’s offense and thrilled fans every time he touched the ball.
NBA Fit Type of Player
Analysts have compared Essengue with NBA stars like Kevin Durant, Brandon Ingram, and Kawhi Leonard, known for their all-around skills. With what Essengue displays on the court, he aims to become a two-way player who excels on both offense and defense. He has the potential to thrive in the modern NBA.
KEEP READING: 5 Best Landing Spots For Projected Lottery Pick 6’11, 18-year-old French Power Forward Noa Essengue
If he continues playing at this level, Essengue could easily secure a top-10 selection in the 2025 NBA Draft. With the playoffs still underway, he has every opportunity to elevate his stock even further.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
