The Washington Wizards on Wednesday selected Frenchman Alexandre Sarr from the Perth Wildcats in the NBL with the second overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft.
Sarr averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks on 52% shooting from the field last season with the Wildcats. He scored in double figures 14 times, including a season-high 18 points, five blocks and two rebounds on Jan. 26 against the S.E. Melbourne Phoenix.
The 7-footer was in contention to be the top pick of the Atlanta Hawks but declined to work out with the organization, clearing the way for the Wizards to take him at No. 2. He said before the draft that he wanted to land with the right team, and that will now be the Wizards.
With the second pick in the 2024 #NBADraft, we have selected @alexandresarr_ from @PerthWildcats. 🤝
Welcome to D.C., Alexandre!
🤝 pres. by @RobinhoodApp pic.twitter.com/z124DdjNM7
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) June 27, 2024
The Wizards’ selection at No. 2 is the third time the team has drafted at that position in the common era. He became the second international player selected after the Hawks took fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher with the first pick.
Sarr is highly touted for his ability to protect the paint and block shots with his 7-foot, 4 1/4-inch wingspan. He has an evolving offensive game and has drawn some comparisons to Giannis Antetokounmpo with his size, skill set and ability in the open court.
The 19-year-old will join a roster featuring Bilal Coulibaly, Kyle Kuzma, Jordan Poole and Johnny Davis, among others. He projects to add scoring, rebounding and a post presence to the roster.
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