Atlanta Hawks bet on French teen sensation, make Zaccharie Risacher No. 1 pick in 2024 NBA Draft

TThe Atlanta Hawks took an important step toward revitalizing their franchise by selecting a French teenager Zacharie Risacher with the first overall pick in the NBA draft on Wednesday evening.

THE 19 year old attacker, Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 215 pounds, he is known for his scoring and shooting ability and ideal size for a winger.

Risacher goes from the French championship to the NBA

Risacher expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude following the selection.

“It’s a blessing, you know.” He shared.

“So exciting. There are a lot of feelings and emotions right now. I don’t know what to say, but it’s really special. I’m so blessed.”

Having played for JL Bourg in the LNB Elite league of France, Risacher averaged 11.1 points and 4.0 rebounds in all competitions in both Euro Cup and the French championship.

He follows in his father’s footsteps, Stéphane RisacherLong-time French professional basketball player and Olympic silver medalist.

“I’m really excited about what’s going to happen.” Risacher continued.

“I just want to do my best to help the team. I feel like I can help a lot. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to be able to get on the field with these great players.”

Despite a year without consensus on the best player in the draft, the The hawksunder the direction of the general director Landry Fieldsopted to use their No. 1 pick rather than trade for more picks.

The team hopes Risacher will become a founding player alongside the guards Trae Young And Defeat Murray and forward Jalen Johnson.

Hawks hope to rebuild with Risacher

THE Falconswho haven’t won a playoff series since reaching the 2021 Eastern Conference Finalsare looking to break that streak with this new addition.

The selection of Risacher on other highly touted prospects, like fellow Frenchman Alex SarrUConn Donovan Clinganand Kentucky guard Reed Sheppardnoted that of Atlanta confidence in its potential.

THE Falcons unexpectedly got the first pick, having only a 3% chance of winning the NBA Draft Lottery.

Key offseason decisions loom for the Falconsincluding the future of veteran players such as center Clint Capelawho is entering the final year of his contract, and striker De’Andre Hunter.

Additionally, the team will focus on improving its defensive performance, after struggling extensively in various defensive settings last season.