The 18-year-old Essengue enticed the Bulls with his strength and his athleticism. He is still getting adjusted to the physical style of play in the United States.

“More intensity — you know, we play really fast…. I think that’s the type of play, I love it. I try, you know, to shoot a lot, a lot of shooting,” he said. “I’m from Europe, so everything changed a little bit. The ball is different — just yeah, to be ready for play.”

Essengue also talked about playing for the Bulls — a team with such a storied history.

“I mean, you know, that’s amazing,” he said. “That’s one of the best franchises ever. They’ve got like six rings. Some big legends from here — the GOAT [Michael Jordan] is from here.”

Already, Essenge is making an impression.

“He played high-level basketball in Europe, so he’s got a really good feel and IQ,” said Billy Donovan III, the Bulls Summer League and Windy City Bulls coach and the son of Bulls head coach Billy Donovan. “The one thing that stands out to me is just how mature he is, you know, because he’s still 18 years old. But he’s played 70 games in Europe, in Germany. His team’s been to the finals. So he’s been around.”

Essengue also threw out the ceremonial first pitch for the White Sox series opener against the Toronto Blue Jays Monday night. It was the first time Essengue had touched a baseball.