Yes, Noa Essengue was dunked on by Johnny Furphy, but that’s not the story. The Bulls rookie continues to improve and show promise in Summer League.
Yes, Noa Essengue was dunked on by Johnny Furphy, but that’s not the story. The Bulls rookie continues to improve and show promise in Summer League. originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Don't be a casual.
If you are, please keep your opinions and takes in check when it comes to Chicago Bulls rookie Noa Essengue. Yes, Essengue got posterized by bouncy Indiana Pacers wing Johnny Furphy in one of the most savage ways possible, but if that’s all you’re talking about after that game, you missed everything that matters.
Here’s the dunk, and you won’t catch me trying to convince anyone that it wasn't filthy.
Also, shout out to the Pacers’ social media team. They’re doing their job—probably a little too good in Essengue’s opinion. This image takes things to another level.
OK, now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk about basketball. How many people are recognizing Essengue dropped 21 points, added three rebounds and an assist, while shooting 3-for-8 from long range?
He’s 18 years old and showing dramatic improvement in every Summer League game. Essengue has gone from a disappointing 5-point, 7-rebound performance in his Summer League debut to a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double in his second game, to the line he produced in his third.
By the way, Essengue had his own aerial moment in that game against the Pacers too.
It wasn’t Furphy Filthy, but in all, it was still an example of another layer of Essengue’s talent.
I’m convinced Essengue, Matas Buzelis, and Josh Giddey could become a strong nucleus for the Bulls. If Chicago finds a way to swing the much-rumored deal to acquire Jonathan Kuminga, the Bulls will have an exciting core to create a competitive buzz in the city.
Related: Bulls Release Preseason Schedule and Noa Essengue Should See Some Early Tests
Related: Bulls' Matas Buzelis Draws Comparison to Current NBA Playoffs Hero
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
