Alex Sarr, born in France, and Zaccharie Risacher, born in Spain but with a breakout season in France, are both in contention for the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. The two players have traveled different paths to get to this point, with Sarr playing in Australia last season and Risacher coming off a successful season in France.
The anticipation is building as the draft night approaches, with one of them potentially heading to Atlanta as the top pick. Risacher expressed his excitement, mentioning that they grew up competing against each other and now have the chance to realize their dreams in New York.
France is on the verge of having the top pick in the NBA Draft for the second consecutive year, following Victor Wembanyama’s selection by San Antonio last year. While the 2024 draft class is considered weak, both Sarr and Risacher have the opportunity to make a mark in the league.
Isaiah Collier, a guard from USC, believes that despite the perception of a weak draft class, there are many talented players with the potential to shine. The uncertainty surrounding the Hawks’ choice adds to the intrigue of this year’s draft.
Sarr, a 7-footer from Bordeaux, France, has had a diverse basketball journey, playing in Spain, the U.S., and Australia. He is looking forward to settling in one place for the next few years, whether it’s Atlanta, Washington, Houston, San Antonio, or Detroit.
On the other hand, Donovan Clingan, a fellow center, has spent his entire career near his birthplace in Connecticut. He acknowledges Sarr’s international experience and expresses excitement about starting a new chapter in his own career.
France’s basketball landscape is set for a significant change if either Sarr or Risacher becomes the No. 1 pick, marking a rare occasion where back-to-back top picks did not come from American colleges. The two players have a history of success together, having won a silver medal at the 2023 Under-19 World Cup.
Risacher’s time playing for ASVEL in France, alongside French basketball legend Tony Parker, has prepared him for the NBA stage. Both players have the potential to make an impact in the league and continue France’s rise in the basketball world.
As the draft night approaches, the spotlight is on Sarr and Risacher as they aim to make history for France in the NBA. The basketball world eagerly awaits to see which player will be selected as the top pick and begin their professional journey in the league.