French Players Make History in 2024 NBA Draft

Zaccharie Risacher, the 19-year-old French forward, was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, marking the second consecutive year a French player has been chosen first. Risacher joins the NBA following a successful season with JL Bourg, where he was named the French league's Best Young Player. His selection contributes to a historic draft for France, with three French players selected in the top six picks, setting an NBA record for the most non-US players from one nation taken in the top 10. Alexandre Sarr, another Frenchman, was picked second overall by the Washington Wizards. Risacher is focused on playing well and not letting the pressure of being the top pick affect him. The Hawks have made roster adjustments to accommodate Risacher, emphasizing his immediate role in the team.