In what turned out to be an exciting matchup in the NBA 2k25 summer league, the Atlanta Hawks faced off against the Washington Wizards. The game was particularly noteworthy as it featured the top two picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr, going head-to-head for the first time. The Wizards managed to secure a victory in the end, with a final score of 94-88. This game marked Sarr’s debut in the NBA, and there were plenty of takeaways from his performance.
Sarr impressed on both ends of the floor, but it was his defensive prowess that truly stood out. With 12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 blocks, and a steal, Sarr made his presence felt. The blocks, in particular, showcased his shot-blocking ability as he effortlessly swatted away multiple shots throughout the game. Despite not always being the tallest player on the court, Sarr’s defensive presence was imposing, deterring opponents from driving into the paint. His performance was a testament to his potential as a game-changer on the defensive end.
On the offensive side, Sarr also shined. Displaying impressive ball-handling skills, Sarr maneuvered around defenders with ease and knocked down shots from beyond the arc at a 40% clip. His scoring ability was complemented by his court vision, as he made smart passes to his teammates throughout the game. Sarr’s versatile skill set was on full display, leaving fans excited about his future in the league.
While Sarr’s performance was impressive, he was not the only rookie who caught the attention of fans. Carlton “Bub” Carrington, the Wizards’ other lottery pick, put on a show with 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists, nearly securing a triple-double. His efficiency from the field and three-point range was remarkable, further enhancing the Wizards’ offensive firepower. Additionally, late first-round pick Kyshawn George contributed with a solid all-around performance off the bench, showing that the Wizards’ young core has a bright future ahead.
As the Wizards’ rookies continue to impress in the summer league, there is optimism surrounding the team’s potential moving forward. With the right development and coaching, this young roster has the talent to compete at a high level in the NBA. The early signs indicate that the Wizards made smart decisions in the 2024 NBA Draft, setting the stage for an exciting future for the franchise.