In a season marked by grit, development, and consistency, Altuntaş has quietly but effectively solidified himself as a foundational piece for Anadolu Efes S.K. The 2024–25 campaign offered a glimpse into his evolving potential, as he averaged 10.1 points per game, pulled down 9.1 rebounds, and shot an impressive 54.1% from the field. While his numbers may not leap off the page at first glance, they represent a model of efficiency and steady improvement that is becoming increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced, high-variance game.
Altuntaş’s performance this season wasn’t built on flashy highlights or viral moments. Instead, it was rooted in fundamentals: hard work on the glass, precision around the basket, and a commitment to doing the little things that often go unnoticed by casual fans but earn nods of respect from coaches and teammates alike. The nearly double-double average speaks volumes about his consistency and impact in the paint. In an era where versatility and perimeter play dominate the headlines, Altuntaş’s throwback style of bruising interior presence and blue-collar work ethic has made him invaluable.
From the opening tip of the season, Altuntaş showed that his offseason work had paid off. He returned to camp leaner, quicker on his feet, and noticeably more confident in his decision-making. The coaching staff noted an uptick in his aggressiveness on the offensive glass, which translated into second-chance points and vital momentum shifts during critical junctures of games. More than just a body in the paint, he became a catalyst for Efes in tight contests, extending possessions and wearing down opposing frontcourts.
His 54.1% field goal percentage is a testament not only to shot selection but also to his ability to convert through contact. Whether it’s a baby hook over a defender or a strong finish off a pick-and-roll, Altuntaş makes the most of his touches. While he’s not the first option in the team’s offensive hierarchy, he understands his role and plays it to near perfection. There is an intelligence to his game — knowing when to crash the boards, when to rotate on defense, and when to seal his man in the post — that adds value beyond the stat sheet.
Defensively, Altuntaş has made significant strides. Though not a shot-blocking force in the traditional sense, his positioning and timing allow him to alter shots and disrupt rhythm. He’s learned to play defense with his feet rather than just his hands, avoiding unnecessary fouls while staying active and engaged. His communication has improved as well, calling out switches and hedging hard when needed, which has helped the team’s defensive rotations stay sharp and synchronized.
It’s worth noting that Anadolu Efes S.K. has undergone some changes in personnel this season, and with those changes came a recalibration of roles. Altuntaş rose to the occasion. Rather than shrinking into the background, he embraced the opportunity to be a more vocal leader and a stabilizing force during moments of flux. Whether the team was on a winning streak or dealing with a tough stretch, his demeanor remained even-keeled. That mental toughness and leadership by example earned him respect in the locker room.
In practices, coaches have lauded his willingness to absorb criticism and make adjustments. He’s often the first one in and the last one out, fine-tuning his footwork or working with assistants on finishing drills. There’s a professional approach to everything he does, from how he takes care of his body to how he prepares for specific matchups. That dedication has not gone unnoticed and may very well pave the way for future captaincy or leadership roles within the club.
Offensively, his game has matured in subtle but impactful ways. There’s more fluidity in his post moves, a soft touch on mid-range attempts, and better awareness of double-teams. His passing from the block has also improved, allowing the team to play inside-out with greater effectiveness. When defenses collapse on him, he’s capable of kicking the ball out to shooters, keeping the offense moving and spreading the floor. Those split-second reads are often the difference between a stagnant possession and a clean look from deep.
One of the most impressive elements of his season has been his rebounding. Averaging 9.1 rebounds per game in a highly competitive league is no small feat. He has a natural nose for the ball and crashes the boards with purpose. Offensive rebounds turn into put-backs or fouls drawn; defensive boards lead to fast breaks and controlled tempo. He treats every rebound as a personal challenge, often outworking players who are more athletic or physically imposing. That tenacity has become part of the team’s identity.
Altuntaş’s journey to this point hasn’t been without obstacles. Injuries and limited minutes earlier in his career could have easily derailed his development, but he remained focused. Each setback became a learning opportunity, and over time, those small lessons have accumulated into a well-rounded game. Now, in what feels like a breakout campaign, he’s proving that patience, perseverance, and preparation can still yield long-term rewards in professional basketball.
The coaching staff has expressed high praise for his season, describing him as “the heartbeat” of their frontcourt. While he may not lead the league in headlines or highlight reels, those within the organization understand just how valuable he is to their success. He sets hard screens, boxes out relentlessly, and plays with a level of selflessness that elevates everyone around him. When a team is looking to build a culture of toughness and accountability, players like Altuntaş are the cornerstone.
