With the No. 27 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics selected Houston Cougars forward Chris Cenac Jr. Now that he is on the team, where does Cenac fit into the future of the Boston Celtics?
At only 19 years old, Cenac averaged 9.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game for the Cougars while shooting over 48% from the floor and 33% from three.
Heading into the offseason, there was fervent talk about Boston needing to add more depth and athleticism, most notably in the frontcourt. Brad Stevens and the franchise believe Cenac brings the potential to add exactly what they are missing.
Chris Cenac Jr. Has NBA-Ready Qualities
At 6-foot-11 and 240 pounds with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, Chris Cenac Jr. possesses a frame coveted by front offices across the league.
In just one season competing in the Big 12, the native of New Orleans proved to be a tenacious rebounder. He showed that he does not shy away from contact when the ball comes off the rim.
Additionally, Cenac is a high-flyer for his position, with a standing vertical of 33 inches. This, combined with his lankiness, gives him an edge in corralling rebounds. It also certifies him as a legitimate put-back and lob threat.
Offensively, Cenac can run the floor with ease. Last season, he was a weapon in transition for the Cougars. This is a plus for the Celtics, who finished 28th last season in transition points per game and would benefit from faster-paced possessions.
While he has shown steady development of a mid-range game and flashes of a reliable three-point shot, these are areas where Cenac is still raw. His shooting mechanics more than pass the eye test, especially for his size. However, he lacks consistency. It will be a skill he has to work on. Luckily, something as simple as increased reps could very well sharpen this aspect of Cenac’s game.
Cenac Jr. Brings Intangibles That Breed Results
Forgetting what all the stats, the measurements, and the pundits have said about Cenac’s game, the youngster has something that can’t be learned: an enviable work ethic.
While playing under legendary Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, Cenac received quite an impressive compliment.
“Nobody works harder than Chris. Chris never has a bad practice. His attitude has never wavered. He’s an easy kid to coach,” Sampson said in March.
That is quite the praise. Keep in mind: this is coming from a coach known for his intensity and the high standards he holds his players to. This is something Stevens, who previously expressed similar thoughts about his character, is also intrigued by.
“When I watched him (Cenac) play live several times this year, he didn’t always play well, but I never walked out of the gym thinking he didn’t play hard, and he didn’t really, really, really go after it. I think that’s a good place to start,” Stevens said after selecting Cenac.
The motor Cenac has, combined with Boston’s elite developmental system, can lead to elite results. So far, he hasn’t even put on a Boston uniform, and most likely will not produce immediate results.
That said, Chris Cenac Jr. is a player who can help Beantown win.
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