Noa Essengue

Playing in one of the most competitive leagues in the world at 18 years old, Noa Essengue has seen his stock rise as the BBL season has progressed. His length and athleticism stick out immediately when you put on his tape, as he’s a high impact defender who can guard in isolation, switch 1-4, and cause turnovers. He’s an aggressive straight-line slasher with long strides who can also finish plays off cuts and in transition. His tools at his age are hard to look past, although he still has room to grow as a shooter and ball-handler.

Strengths:

  • Playmaker on the defensive end who uses his length and active hands to force turnovers. 

  • Impressive lateral quickness, switchability, and on-ball defense. Has a feel for rotating in help defense to protect the rim. 

  • Athletic player in the open court who is an effective finisher in transition and as a cutter. 

  • High motor rebounder on offense and defense. 

  • Showed potential as a slasher when getting downhill for straight-line drives. Creative finisher around the rim who draws a high number of fouls.

Weaknesses:

  • Inconsistent shooter from three-point range despite solid jump-shot mechanics.

  • Lacks upside as a creator on offense given his limited handle. 

  • Would benefit from adding strength to his frame in order to be more physical on defense and when rebounding. 

  • Can be a bit too aggressive when getting to the rim, leading to out-of-control drives into crowded defenses.