Hawks present their draft picks – The Atlanta Voice

A press conference was held to introduce the Atlanta Hawks’ latest additions via the draft, Zaccharie Risacher and Nikola Djurišič.

The city of Atlanta is already buzzing for its first-round pick, Zaccharie Risacher. Speaking with Risacher, he recounts the moment he found out he was selected. “It was special… I’m just excited to be with the Hawks right now.”

For the Risachers, sport is not just a competition, but a way of life that unites them. Basketball, in particular, occupies a special place, dear to Stéphane Risacher, former professional player in France and also father of Zaccharie.

“Sports, and basketball in particular, have always been more than just a game for us,” says Stéphane Risacher. “It’s a way to connect.” As a former athlete, he understands the nuances of the sport and the opportunities it presents. However, his perspective changes when viewed through the lens of fatherhood. “Balancing the knowledge of the sport and its possibilities with being a parent has been an emotionally overwhelming experience,” he admits. Still, the entire family is excited for Zaccharie to take the next steps in his career.

“Both of these guys have international backgrounds that have helped shape them into the athletes they are today,” the Hawks’ newcomer noted. “I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win,” said Djurišič, who was selected in the second round of the draft, a sentiment echoed by Risacher, who added, “I always give 110 percent.” Djurišič also emphasized his desire to learn and grow alongside his new teammates, saying, “It’s been a hectic month. I’m super tired. But when I got to Atlanta, it was like an explosion of energy… It feels like family here.”

Hawks general manager Landry Fields highlighted the team’s commitment to developing young talent and building for the future. “Zaccharie and Nikola embody the qualities we value: dedication, skill and a team-first mentality,” he added. “It was all about knowing who we wanted, being aggressive and ultimately getting our guys.”

At the end of the press conference, there was optimism among fans and team staff. With training camp on the horizon, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an exciting season for the Atlanta Hawks and their newcomers, Risacher and Djurišič.

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