Chicago Bulls rookie Noa Essengue was among those in attendance to watch the Chicago Bears host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football at Soldier Field.
Essengue was joined by several teammates on the sideline before kick off, including Matas Buzelis, Ayo Dosunmu, Kevin Huerter, Dalen Terry and Coby White, among others. The group saw a competitive Week 1 matchup, with the Vikings securing the 27-24 win late in the fourth quarter.
The offseason period is an excellent chance for incoming rookies to get to know their respective markets and communities. Essengue has now had the opportunity to take in a Bears game after throwing out the first pitch for the Chicago White Sox in July.
Essengue was the 12th pick after averaging 10.7 points, five rebounds and 1.2 assists on 52.1% shooting from the field in 60 games with ratiopharm Ulm last season. He registered seven 20-point games, including a 22-point, 14-rebound performance on June 1.
The Frenchman debuted with the Bulls in the NBA Summer League, averaging 12.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.3 steals on 41.9% shooting from the field in three appearances. He finished off his stay with a 21-point performance on July 14.
Essengue was highly touted as a prospect because of his size, rebounding and defensive versatility. The team is excited about his addition and is eager to watch him take the court next season.