The Minnesota Timberwolves selected French big man Joan Beringer with the No. 17 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft last month. This was an intriguing decision by the Timberwolves as drafting a project prospect in Beringer didn’t seem like an effective way to utilize their top-20 selection. For the next few seasons, Minnesota will be trying to win now while building a young core around superstar shooting guard Anthony Edwards. The coaching staff, led by Chris Finch, is confident that Beringer can effortlessly fit into their long-term plan, and in his Summer League debut, Beringer made a strong first impression.
Timberwolves Rookie Impresses In Summer League Debut
Assessment of Debut Performance
From the opening tip-off, Beringer provided vibrant energy on both ends of the floor. Sharing the court with an experienced youth group, including Rob Dillingham, Terrence Shannon Jr., Jaylen Clark, and Leonard Miller, he became comfortable in his role. His teammates set him up for great looks on offense and complemented him athletically on defense. In the first half alone, Beringer collected five blocks, including two blocks in a single possession, quickly molding into Minnesota’s potential long-term defensive anchor.
Joan Beringer has FIVE blocks in 8 minutes of playing time
pic.twitter.com/Ysyix3uiYO
— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 10, 2025
As the game progressed, he became more involved on the offensive end, catching alley-oops and truly cementing himself as a problem on the glass. However, the battle between New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi and him was entertaining to monitor. They both imposed their will on the game, with Missi dominating the boards, collecting 13 rebounds, including seven offensive rebounds. Meanwhile, Beringer was menacing on the defense, registering six blocks and besting Missi and fellow rookie Derik Queen several times.
Ultimately, Beringer impressed in his Summer League debut, putting together what will likely be one of the best rookie performances of the night. He recorded a final stat line of 11 points, eight rebounds, and two steals on an efficient clip (83%).
Keys to Development in Minnesota
This standout Summer League performance for Beringer doesn’t take away from the fact that he still needs a ton of development as an 18-year-old prospect. His feel for the game and attitude were question marks for him. However, joining a competitive team and learning from a fellow French big Rudy Gobert should provide perfect alignment for effective development.
The Timberwolves conducted something very similar with the development of first-round rookies Dillingham and Shannon Jr. last season, allowing them to learn from their veteran leaders in the locker room. Specifically with Dillingham, he spent the majority of his rookie season learning from 18-year NBA veteran Mike Conley.
In a post-game interview, Dillingham complimented the big man’s performance and commented on the developing pick-and-roll connection Finch wants to grow between the young pairing.
Rob Dillingham video, mostly on Joan Beringer. pic.twitter.com/bgTSxVTNq0
— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) July 10, 2025
The Timberwolves’ roster has evolved into a perfect blend of talent, as evidenced by their consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances. It starts with developing the fit between each player while also focusing on individual skills. Minnesota has a distinct approach to cultivating young talent. Players like Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid signify they find success in this system more often than not.
Featured image: © Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
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