Noah Penda, a 6’8″ forward who recently joined the Orlando Magic at just 20 years old, is generating buzz in basketball circles as a potential 2025 NBA Draft prospect.
Behind his fast success is a story of family, sacrifice, and strong support, especially from his parents, Fredo Penda and Laurène Stein.
Born on January 7, 2005, in Paris, France, Noah grew up in Bondy, a suburb renowned for producing talent, including soccer star Kylian Mbappé.
His parents, Fredo Penda and Laurène Stein, were both professional basketball players, though on a smaller stage.
Fredo competed in France’s third and fourth divisions, grinding through the lower tiers with determination.
Laurène played in the second division, showcasing her skill and passion for the game.
Their love for basketball didn’t just stay with them—it became a family legacy.
Noah wasn’t the only one to catch the basketball bug.
His younger brother, Swann Penda, now 17, is a rising star playing as a forward for Paris Basketball.
The Penda household was a hub of hoops, with both parents passing down their knowledge and work ethic to their sons.
Noah’s sister, whose name isn’t widely publicized, also grew up in this tight-knit, sports-loving family.
Noah Penda’s Parents Didn’t Just Teach Him How To Dribble Or Shoot
They showed him what it means to work hard and chase dreams. In a heartfelt interview, Noah opened up about what keeps him motivated:
“My family have put, and the trust they have put in me since the beginning, they have made, an incredible amount of kilometers to come to see me play. They have sacrificed sometimes, some holidays just to come to see me play. They have taught the work, to come to see me play. I have to hand back what they gave me, at the beginning of my career.
Via NBADRAFT
Noah wasn’t always set on basketball. As a kid, he tried everything—soccer, judo, swimming, tennis.
He was a bundle of energy, testing his athleticism in every direction. But when he picked up a basketball at BC Fontenay, something clicked.
He later joined clubs such as Villemomble and Levallois, honing his skills and catching the attention of scouts.
At the age of 17, Noah took a significant step. In June 2022, he signed his first professional contract with JA Vichy-Clermont in the LNB Pro B, France’s second-tier league.
Just two years later, in June 2024, he made the leap to Le Mans Sarthe Basket in the LNB Elite, the top tier of French basketball.
Despite being only 19, Noah earned a starting role, showing off his versatility and knack for big moments.
At 6’8″, with a smooth shooting stroke and defensive instincts, he’s become a standout.
Noah has been a key player for France’s youth national teams.
In 2022, he competed in the FIBA Under-17 Basketball World Cup, averaging 7.5 points per game over six contests.
The following year, he helped France win silver at the 2024 FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup.
His most significant moment came in 2024 at the FIBA U20 EuroBasket tournament. Averaging 11.7 points over seven games, Noah led France to the championship.
In a thrilling quarterfinal against Spain, with France trailing by one, he sank a buzzer-beater to secure a 74–72 victory.
That shot wasn’t just a game-winner—it was a statement.
A New Chapter With The Orlando Magic
In 2025, Noah’s journey took him across the Atlantic.
The Orlando Magic acquired his draft rights from the Boston Celtics in a trade for the draft rights to Amari Williams and Max Shulga.
Now wearing jersey number 93, Noah is poised to bring his energy and skills to the NBA.
For a 20-year-old, he’s already shown he can handle pressure, from international tournaments to pro leagues.
The Magic sees him as a versatile forward who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions—a perfect fit for their young, hungry roster.
Noah’s story is still being written, but it’s clear his parents, Fredo and Laurène, are the bedrock of his success.
They didn’t just give him athletic genes; they gave him heart, discipline, and a sense of purpose.
Their sacrifices—those long drives, missed holidays, and endless encouragement—built a foundation that’s carried Noah from the courts of Bondy to the bright lights of the NBA.
As Noah steps onto the court with the Orlando Magic, he carries more than his dreams.
He carries the love and lessons of his parents, who showed him that hard work and family are the genuine keys to greatness.
With his brother Swann following in his footsteps and the Penda family cheering him on, Noah’s future looks as bright as his buzzer-beaters.
