The excitement among NBA fans has increased after completing Wednesday’s first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Unique young talents have been added to different NBA teams, increasing anticipation. Due to the multitude of names in the draft class, there was fierce competition for a spot. The Hawks ultimately chose Zaccharie Risacher, a young French prodigy.
However, before the start of round 2 of the NBA Draft, a former NBA player who played for three different teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic, disagreed with the selection of Risacher as the no.1 pick. Frank Mason, an American professional basketball player for Scafati Basket of the Lega Basket Serie A (LBA), criticized the Hawks for choosing Risacher as the no. 1 draft pick. Mason also mentioned that he played with Risacher in France last season.
“Played this young guy in France this past season; no way he’s the number one pick in the NBA draft lol, but I guess!” Mason posted this on his X social media account (formerly known as Twitter).
Mason and Risacher Shine in France’s Elite Basketball League
Last season, Mason and Risacher played in France’s top professional men’s basketball league, LNB Elite. Risacher helped JL Bourg finish fourth, while Mason played for SLUC Nancy Basket. It was uncertain until the last minute who the Hawks would choose with their first pick. Some of their supporters were surprised when they selected Risacher.
The French professional basketball player has much potential but has not yet reached physical maturity. Due to his slender build, he may struggle to adapt to the NBA’s physical demands. Because of his thin body, he may be dominated by some stronger NBA players; however, these issues can be overcome with time and workouts.
On Wednesday night, the Washington Wizards selected Alex Sarr with the second overall pick, following Risacher. This decision was somewhat predictable, especially since Sarr refused to work out with the Hawks. However, NBA fans were amazed by this and had different reactions.
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Also Read: “This Is Definitely Special”- Zaccharie Risacher Feels Overwhelmed After Getting Drafted with the No. 1 pick to Atlanta Hawks in NBA Draft 2024
