That’s how you make a strong first impression. It took less than 30 seconds for Timberwolves rookie Joan Beringer to show why he’s known for his shot-blocking, as he rejected the first two Pelicans shot attempts of Thursday’s Summer League opener in Las Vegas.
First Beringer sent back a post look from Yves Missi, who was an NBA all-rookie selection last year. Then, on the same possession, Beringer rejected a running layup attempt from seventh overall pick Jeremiah Fears.
Joan Beringer with TWO early blocks 🚫🚫
The MIN First Round pick is off to a strong start!
We’re underway on ESPN2. pic.twitter.com/VJDqAnIQBD
— NBA (@NBA) July 10, 2025
That’s what the 18-year-old Frenchman, who the Wolves took with the 17th pick in this year’s draft, can bring to the table. He’s listed at 6’10” and 230 pounds, with a 7’4″ wingspan and all kinds of leaping ability. Rim protection is one of his greatest strengths.
Beringer added a third block on his opening stint of the game and two more early in the second quarter, including an emphatic one against fellow first-rounder Derik Queen.
MY GOODNESS JOAN 😳 pic.twitter.com/0vJbHBxztI
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) July 10, 2025
He also showed what’s capable of on the offensive end of the floor, displaying some impressive touch on a short hook baseline hook shot for his first Summer League bucket.
Joan Beringer dunker spot hook shot pic.twitter.com/biC7eZymcu
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) July 10, 2025
He then caught a lob from Terrence Shannon Jr., which figures to be one of the primary ways Beringer scores in the NBA.
Joan Beringer lob dunk, assisted by TJ Shannon pic.twitter.com/JNjmGAPbC1
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) July 10, 2025
Beringer’s first stint ended with a hard fall when his poster dunk attempt was blocked by Missi. Fortunately, he was OK.
Update: Beringer finished the first half with 11 points, 5 blocks, 4 rebounds, and a steal.
We’ll have more coverage of Beringer’s performance and today’s game upon its conclusion here at Timberwolves On SI.