Bulls Draft Noa Essengue 12th Overall in 2025

The Chicago Bulls selected 18-year-old French forward Noa Essengue with the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, making him the only first-round pick from the Central Division this year. Essengue, who played for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany, averaged 12.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game while shooting 56% from the field. He is regarded for his athleticism, mobility, and defensive promise, though he remains a raw prospect with a need to improve his shooting and physical strength. Essengue left his German club during the league finals to attend the NBA Draft, a move that drew some scrutiny but was largely understood given his limited playoff role. The selection received mixed reactions from fans, reflecting both concerns about player development and optimism over his long-term upside. The Bulls’ front office signaled a commitment to building around athletic, up-tempo players with this pick.