When everyone tuned into TV to watch the 2024 NBA Draft, it was common knowledge that Victor Wembanyama would be the first pick. But this year, things are different. While there is no doubt that the top pick will again be a Frenchman, there’s doubt about who it will actually be. Is it Alex Sarr or Zaccharie Risacher? Sarr had been the projected top pick for a while before Risacher displaced him a few days ago.
In his shoes, Risacher stands at 6’9″ and a half with a wing span of 6’10” and half an inch. His weight of 193 lbs indicates a solid build with room for a further few pounds. Risacher has already secured a workout with the Hawks, the owner of the first pick this year. On the other hand, Sarr has rejected multiple workouts with the Atlanta side, which is a probable indication of who will be the top pick.
Risacher made his pro debut in 2021 with the French Pro A League team ASVEL. After spending two seasons with the Lyon-based side, Risacher moved to JL Bourg. With La Jeu, the small forward averaged 10.1 points per game coupled with 3.8 rebounds and 0.9 assists.
His offensive style involves bursts in the paint. Although he is seen mostly as a catch-and-shoot player, his 43.9% floor shooting and 35.2% 3-point shooting show promise as an offensive threat.
His robust coverage in defensive areas makes him a two-way asset, but aggression is a key part of his game that can be refined with experience and coaching.
“I won’t be disappointed if I’m not number 1, but I’d be very happy if I could be, but my priority is to find a team that aims to develop me and build something serious where I can evolve,” Risacher said in an interview.
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Zaccharie Risacher’s Potential Landing Spot
By now, it looks imminent that the Hawks will draft the 19-year-old. Unless something unexpected happens in the next 24 hours or so, we will see him join the Atlanta side.
If there’s a surprise in store for us, expect Donovan Clingan to be picked as the one who impressed the franchise during his workout with them. But things leading up to Wednesday night can change quickly, even with a few hours remaining.
