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In the wake of having 12 French players drafted over the past three years—including the top two selections in 2024 and last year’s first overall pick, Noa Essengue—Joan Beringer and Nolan Traore have been chosen in the opening round of the 2025 NBA Draft, presented by State Farm.
“I’m really thrilled, especially since I played alongside Nolan and Noa on the national team last summer. Being here with them is incredible. Representing France is a remarkable honor, and just being part of the NBA Draft, getting to step into the big league, is truly an amazing experience,” expressed Beringer, 18 years old, as he reflected on the memorable evening at Barclays Center.
After completing his inaugural professional season with Cedevita Olimpija in the BKT EuroCup and AdmiralBet ABA League, the Selestat native was picked by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 17th overall choice. He will join the ranks of French NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert, among his new teammates.
Essengue kicked off the French selections on Wednesday when he was picked up 12th overall by the Chicago Bulls. He has spent the previous two years competing with ratiopharm Ulm in the EuroCup and Germany’s easyCredit BBL.
“I believe this success isn’t limited to just France; it’s a reflection of Europe as a whole. We really excel at fostering young talent, encouraging them to train diligently and instill a solid work ethic,” noted the 18-year-old forward, highlighting the broader achievements of athletes from the continent.
Additionally, 19-year-old Traore not only continued the trend of French players being drafted but also became the 16th standout from the Basketball Champions League to be selected since the competition’s inception in 2016.
“You are facing tough competitors who are driven to provide for their families. They’re motivated for a reason. Competing against these players, even during the European championship, has been the best preparation for the NBA,” Traore shared about his journey with Saint-Quentin in both the Champions League and France’s Betclic Elite for the 2024-25 season.
The young point guard was chosen by the Brooklyn Nets as the 19th pick, set to collaborate with Spanish head coach Jordi Fernandez in the NBA.
Photo Credit: ABA-Liga.com
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