French Prospects Shine: NBA 2024 Draft Round One Recap
The first round of the 2024 NBA Draft has concluded, and it was a night dominated by French basketball prospects, who commanded the spotlight with impressive performances and high draft positions.
At the top of the draft board, the Atlanta Hawks made a bold move by selecting small forward Zaccharie Risacher from France as the No. 1 overall pick. Risacher's selection marks a significant milestone for French basketball, underlining the country’s growing influence on the global stage.
Continuing the trend, the Washington Wizards secured the second overall pick and chose Alex Sarr, a towering center from France. Sarr, known for his defensive prowess and versatility, is expected to make an immediate impact on the rebuilding Wizards roster.
Breaking the French streak, the Houston Rockets picked Reed Sheppard from Kentucky as the No. 3 overall pick. Sheppard, a talented guard with a strong shooting ability, adds a dynamic scoring option to the Rockets lineup.
With the No. 4 pick, the San Antonio Spurs acquired shooting guard Stephon Castle from Connecticut. Castle, highly regarded for his athleticism and scoring touch, is projected to bring a new level of excitement to San Antonio’s backcourt.
The Detroit Pistons opted for Ron Holland, a standout small forward from G League Ignite, as the No. 5 overall pick. Holland’s experience in the G League has prepared him well for the rigors of the NBA.
At the No. 6 spot, the Charlotte Hornets selected power forward Tidjane Salaun. His physical presence and rebounding ability are expected to bolster the Hornets’ frontcourt.
The Portland Trail Blazers chose center Donovan Clingan from Connecticut at the No. 7 pick. Clingan’s shot-blocking skills and interior dominance are seen as key assets for the Trail Blazers.
For the No. 8 pick, the Minnesota Timberwolves brought in point guard Rob Dillingham from Kentucky. Dillingham’s playmaking skills and court vision will be valuable additions to Minnesota’s roster.
At No. 9, the Memphis Grizzlies selected Zach Edey, a center from Purdue. Edey’s size and post play make him a formidable presence in the paint.
Rounding out the top ten, the Utah Jazz picked Cody Williams, a small forward from Colorado. Williams is expected to contribute both offensively and defensively for the Jazz.
The Chicago Bulls added power forward Matas Buzelis from G League Ignite at No. 11. Buzelis’s versatility and experience in the G League make him a promising addition to the Bulls’ lineup.
The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their international scouting prowess by selecting Serbian point guard Nikola Topic at No. 12. Topic’s ball-handling and leadership skills add depth to the Thunder’s backcourt.
At No. 16, the Philadelphia 76ers chose shooting guard Jared McCain from Duke, bringing in a sharpshooter who can stretch the floor with his three-point accuracy.
The Los Angeles Lakers picked shooting guard Dalton Knecht from Tennessee at No. 17. Knecht’s scoring ability and defensive tenacity are elements the Lakers value highly.
The New Orleans Pelicans selected center Yves Missi from Baylor at No. 21. Missi’s strength and rim protection will be beneficial for the Pelicans’ defense.
Closing out the major first-round selections, the New York Knicks picked small forward Pacome Dadiet at No. 25, further emphasizing the international flavor of this year’s draft with another French standout.
This year, the NBA made an unprecedented decision to split the second round into a separate day, adding a new layer of anticipation. Notable names like Bronny James, Kyle Filipowski, and Justin Edwards are still on the board, adding intrigue to what promises to be an exciting day two of the draft.
As the first round concludes, the impact of French talent on the NBA is evident, with several top spots occupied by players from France. The influx of international players continues to diversify and elevate the league, promising an exciting future for basketball fans worldwide.