"Sengun now referred to as 'Daddy Sengun,' not 'Baby Jokic'"

In the thrilling world of basketball, the group stages of EuroBasket 2025 have seen a remarkable shift in the spotlight. The once-dominating presence of Nikola Jokic, one of the world's top big men, has been challenged by none other than Alperen Sengun, affectionately known as "Baby Jokic."

During the tournament, Jokic averaged an impressive 20.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 2.2 steals + blocks, and had an efficiency rating of 29. However, it was Sengun who stole the show, averaging a staggering 21.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.6 steals + blocks, and boasting an efficiency rating of 31.4.

The Turkey-Serbia clash was a pivotal moment in the tournament. Before the game, European media ran headlines like "Baby Jokic vs. Real Jokic," but the narrative shifted dramatically after the match. Many media posts commented, "Sengun is no longer compared, he is defined."

Ergin Ataman, the coach, positioned Sengun as the brain of the offense and limited Jokic's impact in the Serbia match. The strategy paid off, as Turkey won the historic 95-90 victory against Serbia, a significant milestone in EuroBasket 2025.

The victory over Serbia was more than just a win; it was the materialization of Turkey's ambition in EuroBasket 2025. Sengun's performance in the game, with 28 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists, was more than statistics; they were a declaration of his character and identity on the court.

Sengun's leadership style on the court is energetic, outward, and challenging, contrasting with Jokic's calm and introspective approach. This contrast was evident in the Serbia game, as Sengun outperformed Jokic with his impressive statistics.

The crowd chanted "MVP" for Sengun during the Serbia game, signaling his transformation from a potential star to a figure of prominence. FIBA's official social media post even read, "Not Baby Jokic. Call him Daddy Sengun," showcasing the global resonance of Sengun's transformation.

Shane Larkin, a respected figure in the basketball world, praised Sengun's skills, confidence, and ambition, stating that he is ready for the next level and far from reaching his ceiling. Sengun himself has openly stated that he no longer wants to be compared to Jokic and wants to establish his own identity.

Ataman's locker room speech after the match, about raising fists when they win a medal, went viral on social media, signifying the team's ambition and commitment. As EuroBasket 2025 continues, it seems clear that Sengun is not just a challenger to Jokic, but a force to be reckoned with in his own right.