The 2025 NBA draft featured an intriguing mix of international talent, with French players making a significant impact on the early selections. Notably, the Atlanta Hawks surprised many by choosing 19-year-old French forward Zaccharie Risacher as the first overall pick. Standing at 6ft 9in and weighing 195 pounds, Risacher expressed his excitement and gratitude following the news, emphasizing that he felt incredibly blessed.
Following closely behind, the Washington Wizards secured Alexandre Sarr, also a 19-year-old French talent, with the second overall pick. Sarr, who spent the 2023-24 season with Australia’s Perth Wildcats, acknowledged the influence of his older brother Olivier, a center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, expressing his gratitude for the knowledge and support imparted to him.
The draft also saw notable picks like Reed Sheppard from Kentucky, who joined the Houston Rockets, and UConn’s Stephon Castle, selected by the San Antonio Spurs. Furthermore, the presence of three French players within the first six picks highlighted the growing global impact on the NBA.
Additionally, the anticipation around LeBron James potentially playing alongside or against his son, Bronny James, added a compelling narrative to the draft. With Bronny expected to be selected in the second round, there was heightened interest in the Lakers’ subsequent pick and their strategy for the upcoming season.
The draft itself was split over two days, with the first round taking place at the Barclays Center in New York and the second set to be staged at ESPN’s Seaport District Studios, marking an exciting conclusion to the event.
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