I’m shocked that he’s going: Alperen Sengun, a Houston Rocket, withdraws from the NCCA Draft and rejoins the Cougars. Resignation sent to…view more

In a move that has left NBA analysts, college recruiters, and Houston Rockets fans in collective disbelief, Alperen Şengün, the 22-year-old Turkish star and franchise cornerstone of the Houston Rockets, has reportedly withdrawn from the NCAA Draft and re-enrolled at the University of Houston — declaring his intent to play for the Cougars men’s basketball team.

Yes, you read that right.

According to multiple confused sources, Şengün — who averaged 21.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists for the Rockets last season — has not only opted out of the NBA’s upcoming season but has submitted paperwork to the NCAA for “amateur status reinstatement.” His stated reason: “I never got to experience March Madness.”

The NCAA, for its part, is in full panic mode.

“We weren’t prepared for this scenario,” admitted one compliance officer, mid-sip of an extra-large coffee. “He’s literally a millionaire. And he sent his resignation to Adam Silver and our compliance fax number at 3:12 a.m.”

Şengün’s letter of resignation from the NBA simply read:

“Dear Adam,
I’ve done what I needed to do. I am ready to win a national championship now. Go Coogs.
– Alperen S.”

The University of Houston has not officially confirmed his enrollment, but several students claim to have spotted him at the campus bookstore “trying on a letterman jacket and asking where the rec center is.”

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski attempted to clarify the situation on social media, posting:

“Just in: Alperen Şengün believes he is eligible for the NCAA. No one has the heart to tell him that’s not how this works. Developing…”

Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson, when reached for comment, simply said: “Look, if Alperen walks into the gym, I’m not stopping him from suiting up. I’d even let him teach Econ 101 if he wanted.”

Meanwhile, the Rockets organization released a terse, two-sentence statement:

“We thank Alperen for his time in Houston. We wish him luck in whatever… league he’s playing in now.”

Fans of both college and professional basketball are left stunned.

“Imagine you’re a freshman big man walking onto campus and Alperen Şengün is in your locker room stretching,” said one anonymous recruit. “I’m transferring immediately.”

Whether the NCAA will allow this unprecedented backslide into amateurism is unknown. But if approved, expect sellout crowds and confused eligibility debates in every arena the Cougars visit.

As for Şengün, he remains unfazed by the chaos: