Rockets center Alperen Sengun helps Turkey qualify for 2027 FIBA World Cup

After a huge 37-point blowout Monday against Iceland, Turkey has officially punched their ticket to the 2027 FIBA World Cup. This will mark Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun's first chance to play at the tournament for his home country, after Turkey failed to qualify for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

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After a huge 37-point blowout Monday against Iceland, Turkey has officially punched their ticket to the 2027 FIBA World Cup. This will mark Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun's first chance to play at the tournament for his home country, after Turkey failed to qualify for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Against Iceland, it was former Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman who led the way, finishing with 17 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Sengun appeared in two of the team's eight qualifying games, helping propel them atop of Group J with an 8-0 record. Sengun has been a vital component to Turkey's stellar form in European competitions, as the Rockets center helped lead them to the EuroBasket Final in 2025, their second-ever

appearance (2001). During that tournament, Sengun averaged 21.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.1 blocks.

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This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets center Alperen Sengun helps Turkey qualify for 2027 FIBA World Cup