French Phenoms Lead NBA Draft: Hawks Choose Risacher, Wizards Opt For Sarr

The Atlanta Hawks have placed their hopes on a 19-year-old French talent to rejuvenate their struggling team. Similarly, the Washington Wizards are looking to another young French player for a turnaround. The Hawks picked Zaccharie Risacher first overall in Wednesday's NBA draft, followed by the Wizards selecting Alexandre Sarr with the second pick.

Risacher, Sarr, and Donovan Clingan, a two-time American collegiate champion, were all considered for the top pick. Ultimately, the Hawks chose Risacher. This decision had been speculated for days after Sarr worked out with the Wizards but declined an invitation from Atlanta. Risacher worked out for Atlanta last week, impressing ownership enough to make him their first No. 1 pick since 1975.

After Victor Wembanyama was picked first overall last year by the San Antonio Spurs, this marks the first time in NBA history that consecutive No. 1 picks did not play collegiately in the United States. Risacher is seen as having the most potential in this draft class. He excels as a catch-and-shoot 3-point specialist and is an exceptional defender due to his length.

Not even on the draft radar a year ago, Risacher started gaining attention with his impressive start to the LNB Pro A season in France. His stellar play at the EuroCup further solidified his status as a top pick contender. Now joining a Hawks team seeking a spark after several mediocre seasons, Risacher has an opportunity to develop his game and add weight to his frame as he transitions to the NBA.

Atlanta's selection of Risacher made Washington's decision at No. 2 straightforward, especially after Sarr opted not to meet with the Hawks. Sarr reportedly preferred Washington over Atlanta, leading the Wizards to quickly secure someone long considered a top prospect in this draft class.

Sarr spent last season playing for Perth in the Australian Basketball League and is known for his athleticism and two-way play. He excels as a finisher near the hoop off pick-and-rolls and is an elite rim protector on defense. With a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Sarr provides much-needed interior length for Washington.

Rebuilding Efforts

The Wizards are coming off their worst season in franchise history with a record of 15-67 and have missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. Sarr is now central to Washington's rebuilding efforts. At 6-foot-11, he has the size of a center but also possesses ball-handling skills akin to a wing player.

Sarr needs to add bulk and develop his mid-range and 3-point shooting but has enough strengths to contribute immediately on both ends of the court. His ability to dribble through traffic or deliver accurate passes makes him versatile and valuable for Washington's future plans.

With Atlanta's offense centered around guards Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, Risacher won't be pressured into doing too much too soon. The Hawks believe he has the tools to become a core member of their team over time despite being far from a finished product.

The Hawks' recent performance has been lackluster; they reached the Eastern Conference finals in 2021 but only managed three playoff wins before being ousted in early rounds in subsequent years. They missed postseason entirely last season after finishing 10th in the East.

Both teams are banking on these young French players to bring new energy and skills that can help turn their fortunes around in upcoming seasons.