Joan Beringer turned in a tremendous debut in the NBA Summer League with the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the 17th pick earned praise from coach Chris Finch during the contest.
Beringer produced 11 points, eight rebounds, six blocked shots, two steals and one assist in a 98-91 win over the New Orleans Pelicans in Las Vegas, Nevada. He went 5-of-6 from the field and was a plus-eight in 23 minutes on the court.
The Frenchman made his presence felt immediately on the defensive end of the court, blocking two shots on the opening possession of the game and accumulating five by halftime. He initially had seven total swats, but one was removed from the final box score.
“He has impeccable timing,” Finch said of Beringer on ESPN. “He is very active but doesn’t waste any motion. He has got great feel even though he is incredibly raw still. All credit to (team president) Tim Connelly and his staff, they kind of locked into him at one point in the draft process, and that was the guy. It was very exciting for us to be able to get him.”
Beringer helped Cedevita Olimpija win the Slovenian Basketball Cup last season, averaging 5.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks on 64.4% shooting from the field. He scored in double figures 11 times, including a season-high 14 points and 10 rebounds on May 27.
The 6-foot-11 standout was highly touted entering the draft because of his versatility, athleticism and rim protection. He ranked second in the Adriatic League in blocked shots, thanks to his timing, instincts and 7-foot, 4 1/2-inch wingspan.
Beringer showcased those traits at a high level on Thursday and emerged as the top rookie on the court in the opening game at the Thomas & Mack Center. The team was pleased with his effort and is eager to watch him take the court again on Saturday (10 p.m. EDT, NBA TV).
“He fits our young core,” Finch said. “We need more speed and a little bit more activity as we try to stay young as best as we can, but he is fearless. He almost doesn’t know what he doesn’t know, and that is a good thing right now.”