With the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, the Atlanta Hawks selected Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher out of JL Bourg from the French League and EuroCup.
Risacher was named the 2024 EuroCup Rising Star after averaging 11.1 points and 3.9 rebounds on 38.7% shooting from 3-point range in 65 games in France. He joined Kristaps Porzingis and Jonas Valanciunas as recipients of the award.
The 19-year-old emerged as the front-runner for the top pick after the Hawks won the draft lottery last month. He visited the organization last week and likely established himself as its choice after a strong showing in his workout and interview.
HE'S NUMBER 1️⃣
Welcome to Atlanta, @Zacch_10! pic.twitter.com/1Ro2XPAr6l
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) June 27, 2024
Risacher is the Hawks’ first No. 1 pick since David Thompson in 1975. He is their highest-drafted player since Marvin Williams was selected with the fifth overall pick in 2005. It is the first time in history a player without college experience was chosen first in consecutive years.
The Hawks were also said to be considering other prospects with the top pick, like Donovan Clingan, Alex Sarr and Reed Sheppard. However, the team couldn’t secure a predraft workout with Sarr after the 7-footer declined their invitation.
Risacher projects to check many boxes for the Hawks at the next level. He is highly touted for his passing, playmaking on offense and shooting ability. He also brings defensive versatility, given his size and ability to guard multiple positions.
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