As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare for the NBA Summer League, attention is naturally on familiar names like Terrence Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham. However, within the organization, there’s growing excitement around their rookies — especially first-round pick Joan Beringer, a 6’10” center from France.
Despite only playing basketball for a few years, Beringer is turning heads with his raw potential. While the coaching staff acknowledges he’s still developing, they’ve already seen flashes of promise during team practices — a positive sign for his future with the franchise.
The Timberwolves’ frontcourt already features established names like Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid, and Julius Randle is capable of playing small-ball center when needed. But Minnesota used their 17th pick to grab Beringer and added 7’3″ Rocco Zikarsky in the second round, showing a clear investment in future big men.
Assistant coach Max Lefevre praised Beringer’s mindset and work ethic, saying:
“He wants to be great, he’s like super receptive to coaching, he’s asking questions and really good questions.”
Lefevre added, “Obviously he’s super raw, so we just have to make sure we cover the basics first, especially the language… He’s just getting things done by pure talent and athleticism.”
With star guard Anthony Edwards still young and surrounded by a talented core, the Timberwolves are building something special. If their newest additions — including Beringer — continue to progress, Minnesota may have secured a promising foundation for long-term success.
