The first round of the 2024 NBA Draft saw a remarkable display of French basketball talent, as several players from France were selected in top spots. This year's draft unfolded with the Atlanta Hawks opting for Zaccharie Risacher, a small forward from France, as the No. 1 overall pick. This selection has put French basketball firmly on the map and emphasized the country's growing influence in the international basketball scene.
Rising Stars from France
French players were the center of attention this year, claiming multiple top draft picks. Following Risacher, the Washington Wizards secured the second overall pick and chose Alex Sarr, a commanding center also hailing from France. The success of French players didn't end there, as the Charlotte Hornets selected Tidjane Salaun, a power forward, with the sixth overall pick.
The first few spots in the draft made it clear that France's developmental programs are burgeoning talent pools. The choices made by the Hawks and Wizards showcase their confidence in the athleticism, skill, and potential of these young stars.
Top 10 Picks: A Mix of Talent
As the draft continued, the Houston Rockets picked Reed Sheppard from Kentucky as the No. 3 overall pick, highlighting the versatility and depth of the new cohort of players. The San Antonio Spurs followed with their selection of Stephon Castle, a shooting guard from Connecticut, solidifying their backcourt. Ron Holland, a small forward from G League Ignite, joined the Detroit Pistons at the No. 5 spot, bringing his professional experience at just the beginning of his career.
At No. 7, the Portland Trail Blazers chose center Donovan Clingan from Connecticut. This selection is poised to bolster their inside presence. The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired Rob Dillingham, a point guard from Kentucky, with the No. 8 pick, adding a dynamic playmaker to their roster.
The Memphis Grizzlies added to their frontcourt by selecting Zach Edey, a commanding center from Purdue, at No. 9. Cody Williams, a small forward from Colorado, found his place with the Utah Jazz at No. 10.
Mid to Late Round Highlights
Moving further into the draft, the Chicago Bulls chose power forward Matas Buzelis from G League Ignite at No. 11, bringing in a player with a unique blend of size and skill. At No. 12, the Oklahoma City Thunder made their global influence felt by selecting Serbian point guard Nikola Topic. His inclusion signals the Thunder's ongoing commitment to developing international talents within the NBA.
The Philadelphia 76ers added shooting guard Jared McCain from Duke with the No. 16 pick. This is a notable addition to their backcourt, offering scoring and perimeter defense. The Los Angeles Lakers, holding the No. 17 pick, chose Dalton Knecht from Tennessee to enhance their wing depth.
Other notable selections include Yves Missi, a center from Baylor, who was picked by the New Orleans Pelicans at No. 21. The New York Knicks rounded out their roster with small forward Pacome Dadiet at No. 25, another promising player adding international flair to the team.
A New Structure for the Draft
In a unique shift, the NBA decided to split the second round into a separate day for the first time. This change underscores the league's commitment to giving each pick its due attention and consideration, providing teams with more time to evaluate their options and make strategic choices.
Notably, some significant names remain on the board for the second round, including Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James, Kyle Filipowski, and Justin Edwards. These players, who did not hear their names called on the first day, will be of great interest as the draft continues.
The first round of the 2024 NBA Draft showcased a diverse mix of talent with a substantial French presence and international flair. As the NBA increasingly globalizes, the influence of international players becomes ever more pronounced, promising a vibrant future for the league and its global fanbase.