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.
We'll have more coverage of Beringer's performance and today's game upon its conclusion here at Timberwolves On SI.