Joan Beringer (Photo by Cedevita Olimpija)
Joan Beringer didn’t grow up dreaming of NBA stardom. Until three years ago, the 6-foot-11 French center was a soccer player. But after a growth spurt made cleats impossible to find, Beringer picked up a basketball and began playing on the outdoor courts near his home in Strasbourg.
Now, just 18 years old and with limited organized experience, Beringer has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. Sources around the league have indicated to RG that he is drawing interest from teams in the late lottery range, with several front offices intrigued by his defensive instincts, mobility, and long-term upside.
“It’s been my dream to play in the NBA,” Beringer told ESPN. “It’s a good moment to go. I want to say thank you to my teammates. They made everything a lot easier for me.”
Defensive Upside Drawing Interest
Beringer played the 2024–25 season with Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia, appearing in both the Adriatic League and EuroCup. Across all competitions, he averaged 4.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in 18 minutes per game over 51 games, shooting 61% from the field. He also led the Adriatic League in block percentage.
Though his offensive skill set remains limited, Beringer’s length and agility have stood out to NBA evaluators. At 6-foot-11 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, he has flashed the ability to protect the rim and guard in space—traits that remain at a premium in today’s game.
“Coach gave me a chance to prove myself, and I did well in those games, so they decided to keep me on the team,” Beringer told ESPN. “Defense was the reason I got a chance.”
During private conversations with RG, one team many scouts see as a strong fit is the Atlanta Hawks. With veteran center Clint Capela entering free agency, Beringer could offer immediate rim protection and serve as a play-finishing threat in pick-and-roll alongside Trae Young.
Beringer’s best performance came in March, when he recorded 12 points and five rebounds in a win over Krka. Still, scouts caution that his feel for the game remains a work in progress. He’s prone to foul trouble and is still learning how to operate within structured offensive sets.
Rapid Rise From Street Courts to Draft Boards
Beringer didn’t play organized basketball until the fall of 2021. After playing casually with friends, he joined a small local club, Saint-Joseph Strasbourg, and began developing his game.
He represented France at the 2024 FIBA U18 European Championship, averaging 9.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks on 68.9% shooting. Coaches and executives have taken note of his rapid progress and steady commitment to development.
Beringer is the third-youngest player in the draft class and widely considered one of the most physically gifted. While his offensive game may take years to fully mature, his ability to anchor a defense and cover ground makes him a compelling bet for teams seeking long-term value.
For a player who first picked up a basketball less than four years ago, Beringer has made a fast climb—and may hear his name called earlier than expected on draft night.
Grant Afseth is a Dallas-based basketball writer with over eight years of experience covering the NBA. He’s spent time on the Mavericks beat for Sports Illustrated and now writes for Sportskeeda.com and DallasHoopsJournal.com. Known for his analysis, engaging interviews, and breaking news coverage, Grant provides a fresh angle to the game.
