NBA Draft 2024: French talent shines as Risacher leads top picks
The NBA draft 2024 saw the Atlanta Hawks boldly choose French forward Zaccharie Risacher as this year’s top pick, continuing a trend that began with Victor Wembanyama’s selection last year.
Risacher, standing tall at 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 195 pounds, impressed scouts with his skills honed in France’s top league with JL Bourg-en-Bresse.
Expressing his elation to ESPN, Risacher described the moment as overwhelming, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunity to join the NBA ranks.
Following closely behind, the Washington Wizards secured Alexandre Sarr with the second overall pick.
Sarr, who spent the past season with Australia’s Perth Wildcats, acknowledged the pivotal role of his older brother Olivier, a seasoned center with the Oklahoma City Thunder, in shaping his career.
This year’s draft marked a departure from tradition with both top picks having no prior college experience, underscoring a shift in how NBA teams evaluate talent.
Kentucky’s Reed Sheppard joined the Houston Rockets at number three, followed by UConn’s Stephon Castle landing with the San Antonio Spurs at number four.
The top five was rounded out by Ron Holland of G League Ignite, selected by the Detroit Pistons.
French basketball continued to make waves as Tidjane Salaun was picked by the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting a strong international presence in this year’s draft.
Looking ahead, all eyes are on Bronny James, son of Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James, as he awaits his expected selection in the second round. LeBron has expressed his desire to share the court with his son before retiring from professional basketball, adding a poignant narrative to this year’s draft proceedings.
The draft, split into two days, commenced at the Barclays Center in New York for the first round, with the second round set to unfold at ESPN’s Seaport District Studios, promising more excitement and the discovery of new talents eager to make their mark in the NBA.
