The 2024 NBA Draft's first round wrapped up with several French basketball prospects featuring prominently in the top selections, highlighting the growing international influence on the league. The Atlanta Hawks made a decisive move at the top of the draft, selecting small forward Zaccharie Risacher from France as the No. 1 overall pick. Risacher’s ascent to the top of the draft showcases his exceptional talent and the high expectations surrounding his future in the NBA.
The Washington Wizards followed suit with their second overall pick, choosing Alex Sarr, a center from France. Sarr’s dominance in the paint and defensive prowess make him a promising addition to the Wizards' roster. This selection underlines Washington’s strategy to build a stronger interior presence.
At No. 3, the Houston Rockets opted for Reed Sheppard from Kentucky. Known for his versatility and scoring ability, Sheppard promises to bring a dynamic edge to Houston’s backcourt.
Building Blocks for Success
The San Antonio Spurs continued to bolster their lineup by picking Stephon Castle, a shooting guard from Connecticut, with the No. 4 overall pick. Castle’s sharpshooting and high basketball IQ are expected to fit perfectly within the Spurs' disciplined system. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons chose Ron Holland, a small forward from G League Ignite, at the No. 5 spot. Holland’s transition from the G League to the NBA is highly anticipated, with many expecting him to make an immediate impact.
Rounding out the top ten, the Charlotte Hornets selected power forward Tidjane Salaun at No. 6, while Portland Trail Blazers solidified their frontcourt by taking Donovan Clingan, a center from Connecticut, at No. 7. Clingan’s size and rebounding ability are key assets that Portland hopes will enhance their defensive dynamics.
The Minnesota Timberwolves picked point guard Rob Dillingham from Kentucky with the No. 8 pick. Dillingham’s playmaking skills and court vision could prove vital in orchestrating Minnesota’s offense. Following closely, the Memphis Grizzlies picked Zach Edey, a center from Purdue, at No. 9. Known for his towering presence, Edey’s shot-blocking and rebounding capabilities make him a formidable addition in the paint.
International Talent Shines
The Utah Jazz selected Cody Williams, a small forward from Colorado, at No. 10. Williams' all-around game and defensive versatility are expected to fill a critical role for the Jazz. Chicago Bulls chose power forward Matas Buzelis from G League Ignite at No. 11, further highlighting the G League’s role as a fertile ground for NBA talent.
The Oklahoma City Thunder added to their international flavor by picking Serbian point guard Nikola Topic at No. 12. Topic’s playmaking and leadership on the floor could be the missing piece in the Thunder’s roster. The Philadelphia 76ers enhanced their backcourt by selecting shooting guard Jared McCain from Duke at No. 16, while the Los Angeles Lakers picked shooting guard Dalton Knecht from Tennessee at No. 17.
Center Yves Missi from Baylor was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans at No. 21. Missi’s defensive acumen and ability to protect the rim are key attributes that the Pelicans will look to harness. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks rounded out their key selections by taking small forward Pacome Dadiet at No. 25. Dadiet’s athleticism and potential for growth make him an intriguing prospect for Knicks fans.
A New Draft Format
In a notable change, the NBA decided to split the second round into a separate day for the first time. This new format aims to give teams and players a breather, allowing for more strategic thinking and decision-making before the next wave of picks.
Names like Bronny James, Kyle Filipowski, and Justin Edwards remain on the board for the second round, ensuring that the excitement surrounding this year’s draft will carry over into the next day. With such high-profile prospects still available, the second round promises to deliver its share of surprises and impactful selections.