Chicago Bulls Draft 18-Year-Old Noa Essengue No. 12

The Chicago Bulls used the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to select 18-year-old French forward Noa Essengue, betting on his long-term potential despite his rawness. Essengue, who has professional experience playing for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany, impressed with his two-way versatility, defensive capabilities, and open-court game, which fits the Bulls' renewed emphasis on defense after previous offense-first strategies. Bulls GM Marc Eversley described Essengue as a versatile wing defender with an ability to impact the game on both ends and praised his skill in attacking the rim and getting to the free-throw line. The Bulls, who finished ninth in the Eastern Conference and missed the playoffs again, are in a transitional phase, focusing on retooling the roster with an eye toward future success and financial flexibility in 2026. Despite middling recent results and no urgency from ownership to push for immediate playoff success, the front office and coach Billy Donovan remain secure in their roles as the team looks to build toward meaningful progress over the next 18 months. The selection of Essengue highlights the Bulls' strategy of prioritizing youth, athleticism, and defensive potential as they aim to reshape the team's identity and competitiveness.