Alexandre Sarr, a 19-year-old center for the Washington Wizards, is making waves in the NBA with impressive stats and standout performances. Selected second overall in the 2024 draft, he showcases agility, defensive skills, and evolving shooting capabilities. Sarr’s basketball journey began in France and includes stints with Real Madrid and the NBL’s Perth Wildcats. Guided by his family, including his NBA-playing brother, he is poised for a bright future in professional basketball.
Emerging Talent: Alexandre Sarr’s Rise in the NBA
Rudy Gobert, Nicolas Batum, Guerschon Yabusele, Bilal Coulibaly, Zaccharie Risacher, and the sensational Victor Wembanyama are just a few of the French players currently dazzling fans on NBA courts. Among this talented group, Alexandre Sarr is quietly carving out his own name in the league, showcasing a promising start that hints at a bright future for French basketball.
Alexandre Sarr: A Star in the Making
At only 19 years old, Sarr has already secured his position as the starting center for the Washington Wizards. He is making a significant impact with impressive stats that include an average of 12 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game. The Bordeaux native has turned heads with standout performances, including two ‘double-doubles’ against the New Orleans Pelicans. As he becomes more comfortable with his team, Sarr is undoubtedly building momentum, making it a perfect time to delve into his story.
Selected second overall in the 2024 draft, just behind fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher, Sarr is recognized for his unique skill set. Standing at 2.13 meters and weighing 93 kg, he possesses the ideal physique for a center. His agility and explosiveness, combined with his ability to intimidate opponents near the basket, make him an exceptional modern defender. With solid shooting skills—albeit with some expected inconsistencies for his age—Sarr is developing into a complete center capable of evolving the game.
Wizards coach Brian Keefe has high hopes for Sarr, noting his versatility and potential. He praised Sarr’s contributions on both ends of the court, highlighting his ability to defend any position and score from various spots. “What impresses me is his game reading and passing ability,” Keefe remarked, indicating that Sarr is expected to take on playmaking responsibilities.
From Passion to Profession: Sarr’s Basketball Journey
Alexandre Sarr’s love for basketball ignited at a young age, quickly revealing his natural talent for the sport. Growing up, he was already towering over his peers at 14, demonstrating exceptional physical abilities and a relentless work ethic. “They were fanatics. Alexandre and Olivier (his brother) were always at the gym,” recalls Gilles Gombeau, president of Union Sportive Bouscataise Basketball, one of Sarr’s early clubs. His coaches consistently praised his intensity and dedication, which have been pivotal in his development.
Having commenced his career in France, Sarr joined Real Madrid’s training academy at just 14 years old to enhance his prospects. He then spent two seasons in Overtime Elite before heading to Australia to compete in the NBL, where he made a significant impact with the Perth Wildcats, a team that reached the finals of the league.
Alexandre is also following in the footsteps of his older brother Olivier, who has played in the NBA for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although Olivier’s journey has faced challenges, including injuries, he plays a vital role in Alexandre’s development. “Olivier shares valuable insights with me after every game,” Sarr shared, emphasizing their supportive relationship as they both navigate the demanding landscape of professional basketball.
With the guidance of his father Massar, a former professional player himself, Sarr is well-equipped to reach the heights he aspires to achieve. “Growing up, basketball was everywhere in our home,” he laughs, reflecting on the supportive environment that has shaped his journey. As he continues to make strides in the NBA, the future looks incredibly bright for Alexandre Sarr.