A Night to Forget for Wizards' Rookie Alex Sarr in Las Vegas
In a game that will undoubtedly serve as a learning experience, Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr struggled mightily in the Las Vegas Summer League, delivering a performance that was as historically unprecedented as it was disheartening. The 19-year-old managed to miss all 15 of his field goal attempts in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, setting a dubious record for the most shot attempts without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite his shooting woes, Sarr’s effort in other areas of the game remained commendable. He ended the night with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in just under 30 minutes of play. The young forward's ability to stay engaged on the defensive end and contribute to his team in various ways highlights a level of resilience and determination that will serve him well as his career progresses.
However, the shooting struggles have not been isolated to this one game. Over the course of three Summer League outings, Sarr has been unable to find his rhythm from the field, shooting below 35% in each contest. Summing up his performance thus far, Sarr is connecting on just 19.5% of his field-goal attempts. This includes a particularly rough outing against Portland where he missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both free throws.
Summer League Struggles
While these numbers may seem concerning, it is essential to remember that the Summer League is as much about development and adjustment as it is about performance. Sarr, who averaged 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game in the Summer League, has shown flashes of potential that illustrate why the Wizards took a chance on the 19-year-old. His shot-blocking ability has been a bright spot, averaging 3 blocks per game in Las Vegas, showcasing his defensive prowess.
These early results also need to be viewed in the context of Sarr’s recent basketball journey. The French forward spent last season in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program, which is designed to help promising young talent gain professional experience before making the leap to the NBA. This international experience undoubtedly helped him grow as a player, but it also means he is still adapting to the pace and style of NBA play.
For Sarr, each game in the Summer League is a step in his development. The Wizards coaching staff will be closely monitoring his progress, encouraging him to focus on finer mechanics and shooting techniques to help improve his efficiency. While shooting slumps are not uncommon for rookies, they provide an opportunity for introspection and improvement.
Looking Ahead
Wizards fans and staff alike will be hopeful that Sarr can shake off these early struggles and find his form as the pre-season approaches. His defensive and rebounding contributions indicate a well-rounded player in the making. Moreover, the willingness to take 15 shots despite a tough night exemplifies a level of courage and confidence that is crucial for any young player hoping to succeed in the league.
Sarr's journey provides a vivid reminder of the challenges many international players face when transitioning to the NBA. The NBL’s Next Stars program has produced several NBA talents, and while Sarr's initial numbers may not be eye-catching, the experience and potential he brings are invaluable. Given time and the right guidance, there is a good chance that Alex Sarr will find his footing and begin to demonstrate why he is considered one of the promising young players in the league.
In the immediate term, the Wizards will need to salvage positives from each game and focus on long-term development rather than short-term results. Patience will be key as Sarr continues to work on his game, and there is optimism that he will soon convert his efforts into tangible results on the scoreboard.
As the Las Vegas Summer League continues, the story of Alex Sarr serves as a testament to the trials and tribulations faced by rookies, emphasizing that every professional journey has its bumps along the way. In this crucible of competition and learning, Sarr’s perseverance might just be the foundation upon which a successful NBA career is built.