Vive la France! French basketball players made history at the NBA draft on Wednesday night, with three players from the country being selected in the top six picks. This marks a significant achievement for French basketball and highlights the talent emerging from the country.
The Atlanta Hawks kicked off the draft by selecting Zaccharie Risacher with the first overall pick. Risacher, a 6’9″ forward from JL Bourg-en-Bresse in France, is a developing player with great potential. He has shown impressive guard skills and has demonstrated his ability to shoot from beyond the arc, making 39% of his 3-pointers. However, at just 19 years old, he still needs to work on his strength and playmaking abilities.
The Washington Wizards followed suit by selecting Alex Sarr, a 7-foot center from Perth, Australia. Sarr, who grew up in France before joining the Overtime Elite developmental program in Atlanta and playing in the Australian-based National Basketball League, brings athleticism, mobility, and shot-blocking potential to the team. With his 7’4″ wingspan, Sarr has the ability to defend multiple positions but needs to improve his outside shooting.
The Houston Rockets, acquiring the pick from Brooklyn, selected Reed Sheppard, a 6’2″ guard from Kentucky. Sheppard stands out for his exceptional shooting stroke, hitting an impressive 52.1% of his 3-pointers last year. He also showcased his playmaking abilities, averaging 4.5 assists. However, there are concerns about how he will match up with bigger guards, especially when playing off the ball.
Moving on to the San Antonio Spurs, they chose Stephon Castle, a 6’6″ guard from UConn. Castle is a versatile combo guard with size and the ability to overpower smaller defenders. He has great potential as a defender and playmaker but needs to improve his outside shooting. Despite his touted-recruit status, Castle accepted a complementary role in UConn’s NCAA title run.
The Detroit Pistons selected Ron Holland II, a 6’7″ forward from the G League Ignite. Holland offers versatility with his ability to attack the rim and has defensive upside with his 6’11” wingspan. However, he needs to work on his outside shot, as he only made 24% of his 3-point attempts. Holland, who bypassed college basketball to join the G League Ignite, is a McDonald’s All-American.
The Charlotte Hornets rounded out the top six picks by selecting Tidjane Salaun, a 6’9″ forward from Cholet in France. Salaun is a fluid athlete with a nearly 7’2″ wingspan, offering long-term potential to stretch defenses and defend smaller perimeter players. However, he still needs to improve his outside shooting consistency.
These picks highlight the international talent pool and the growing influence of foreign players in the NBA. It is a testament to the global reach of the sport and the increasing level of competition worldwide.
This NBA draft was a significant moment for French basketball, with three players from the country selected in the top six picks. It demonstrates the rising prominence of French players in the NBA and the impact they are making on the league. With their unique skill sets and potential for growth, these players have the opportunity to make a significant impact on their respective teams and contribute to the continued growth of international basketball.
In conclusion, the 2024 NBA draft showcased the talent and potential of international players, particularly those from France. The selections of Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, and Tidjane Salaun in the top six picks highlight the increasing influence of foreign players in the league and point towards a bright future for French basketball. As the NBA continues to expand its global footprint, we can expect to see more international players making waves in the league and further enriching the sport.
