Former 76ers Guard Admits Sengun Is Better Than Embiid Now

Playing at the highest level as a center is a challenging job in the NBA. The current crop of centers is elite, headlined by Jokic, the three-time MVP. Embiid is on the same level when he is healthy, but he has not been present in the discourse for the top centers.

Korkmaz, a longtime teammate of Embiid's, has been playing for the Turkey national team. Sengun has been the standout for Turkey, prompting Korkmaz to be impressed enough to call him the best player he's shared the court with.

Korkmaz Sees Sengun's High-Level Potential

While it might sound hyperbolic from Korkmaz, he does see potential in Sengun to be a difference-maker for Turkey and the Rockets. He saw both Embiid and Sengun, so he knows what it takes to be a top center.

Korkmaz and Sengun are playing alongside each other on the Turkish national team. The young center is the national team's best player, and people are appreciating what he has done for Turkey and the Rockets in the NBA.

"I think Joel Embiid was the best player and best center I played with, but I think we can tell that it's Alperen now. It's great to be around him. He's enjoying basketball, and he helps us a lot on the court, both defensively and offensively," Korkmaz said in a post-game press conference.

"I think he's a special kid, and every day he's trying to give his maximum."

Sengun Has A Big 2025-26 Season Ahead

With Kevin Durant joining the Houston Rockets, the team could double down on its surprising run to the second seed in the 2024-25 season. Durant and Sengun are the team's two All-Stars, and they should have a natural synergy.

Durant has always been a dream running mate for most players because he is easy to integrate into any system. He has the skills to become the Rockets' top star, but he will have some friendly competition with Sengun.

At only 23, Sengun has all the potential to unlock. He has the scoring and rebounding down pat, and he has been one of the most impressive playmakers from the center position outside Jokic.

As long as head coach Ime Udoka believes in Sengun, he will have a featured role on the team. Durant is the biggest name, but do not expect Sengun's role to get smaller because he is one of the best centers in the league.

Some people might not have him over Embiid, but the Turkish center will continue to prove he is one of the best.