Granted, it’s extraordinarily difficult to do at the moment, but look past that viral meme and you’ll see the pair of digits that could unlock Noa Essengue’s all-star potential: 3 and 8. As in the Chicago Bulls’ rookie’s 3-for-8 shooting performance from three-point range in the team’s summer league win over the Indiana Pacers.

Essengue’s name will, most likely, forever be linked with the image of him being dunked on by Johnny Furphy. No matter which way you slice it, it’s an embarrassing photo.

But the 12th overall pick also had his best game as a pro in Chicago’s first summer league victory. And at least he’s not Frederick Weiss.

There’s increasing optimism for Chicago Bulls rookie Noa Essengue

Other rookies have been more impressive in the 2025 NBA Summer League. Joan Beringer, who went 17th overall to the Minnesota Timberwolves, had a summer league record seven blocks in his debut. The Portland Trail Blazers made waves when they selected Chinese center Yang Hansen at No. 16. He’s already drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokic. But careers aren’t made in July.

Essengue struggled mightily in his first game, racking up more turnovers (seven) than points (five). He looked uncertain and passive, attempting only 10 shots and two free throws in more than 24 minutes. But he’s shown steady improvement since.

In his second summer league contest, the 18-year-old notched a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds in less than 19 minutes. Then he broke out against the Pacers, scoring 21 points and only turning the ball over once. He was 7-of-14 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, but most importantly, he was aggressively hunting his shot from the opening tip.

Essengue scored 11 of his 21 in the first quarter. He hit 4 of his 6 shots from the field, including a silky fadeaway from the elbow on the Bulls’ opening possession. He got to the line and knocked down both of his free throws. He connected 1 of his 2 attempts from behind the arc — and stayed aggressive. Essengue shot two threes in each quarter, burying one in all but the second period.

His NBADraft.net scouting report states, in part, “…to elevate his long-term ceiling, continued development of his outside shot and overall offensive confidence will be critical.” Well, Essengue put up eight threes and shot 37.5 percent against the Pacers.

It’s one summer league game. But the Bulls drafted the French teenager because of his combination of length, smooth athleticism, defensive versatility and ability to get to the rim. It was clear that Essengue would be a developmental project and that his three-point stroke would be his swing skill.

If he can shoot 37.5 percent and make teams respect his outside shot, his potential vaults from valuable defender to 3-and-D all-star.