Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr endured a challenging evening in the Las Vegas Summer League, recording an unprecedented 0 of 15 shooting performance during a defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers. It was an outing that will likely linger in the memory for Sarr, albeit not for the reasons he might have hoped.
Established as a landmark in Summer League history, Sarr attempted the most field goals without a single make since at least 2017. Despite his shooting woes, the young forward's all-around game provided some silver linings, with Sarr accumulating 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in fewer than 30 minutes on the court.
Struggles Continue for Sarr
This performance marks yet another difficult game for Sarr in Las Vegas. Across three Summer League games, he has consistently struggled to find his shooting rhythm, failing to surpass the 35% shooting mark in any outing. Overall, his field goal percentage stands at a mere 19.5%, a troubling statistic for both the player and the Wizards organization.
Sarr's troubles were particularly evident from beyond the arc and the free-throw line in the game against Portland, missing all seven of his 3-point attempts and failing to convert either of his free-throw opportunities.
A Look at the Numbers
Despite his shooting difficulties, Sarr has contributed positively in other areas. He is averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game in the Summer League, matching his scoring with his presence on the boards. Additionally, his defensive capabilities have shone through, with an impressive average of 3 blocks per game.
The Wizards and their fans will be hoping that with time and experience, Sarr can transfer his defensive prowess and rebounding tenacity into improved offensive efficiency.
Path to the NBA
Sarr’s journey to the NBA began in Western Australia, where he spent the previous season with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL’s Next Stars program. At just 19 years old, the transition to the NBA represents a significant step up, one that will undoubtedly come with growing pains such as the performance witnessed against Portland.
As part of the Next Stars program, he had the opportunity to develop alongside seasoned professionals and gain valuable international experience. These foundational experiences are crucial as he adapts to the faster-paced and more physically demanding NBA environment.
Future Prospects
While Alex Sarr’s Summer League has been marred by shooting struggles, it is essential to remember that he is at the very beginning of his professional career. At 19, he has ample time to develop and refine his skills. The coaching staff will likely focus on helping him improve his shooting mechanics, confidence, and overall decision-making on the court.
For the Wizards, nurturing Sarr’s potential will be key moving forward. His knack for rebounding and shot-blocking showcases a defensive upside that can be incredibly valuable. If Sarr can couple that with a more reliable offensive game, he could become a significant contributor to the franchise’s future success.
The Las Vegas Summer League continues to serve as a testing ground for young talents like Alex Sarr. While the nights may be tough and the performances scrutinized, it is through these early trials that future NBA stars are often forged. For Sarr, maintaining focus and resilience will be paramount as he looks to bounce back and demonstrate the talent that earned him a spot on an NBA roster.