After weeks of suspenseful build up, the Atlanta Hawks utilized the number one pick, their first in 30 years, on forward, Zacchaire Risacher, out of France. Risacher last appeared for JL Bourg of France’s LNB Élite (their top national division).
The 6’9” forward is only 19 and will be an integral part of Atlanta’s plans moving forward. The young Frenchman has the potential to make a run at Rookie Of the Year, because of his instant-impact-potential. He averaged 10.1 points, on 43.9% shooting overall, 35.2% from three. He averaged 22 minutes a game for JL Bourg.
Risacher currently joins a core of Trae Young, Dejounte Murray, and Jalen Johnson, as rumors swirl about the future of numerous players on the roster. As the top selection, one would assume that Risacher would start day one, but the Hawks will potentially have to move pieces around to make that happen.
Atlanta played it close to the chest much of the draft process. It was relatively unknown if Risacher would be the pick right up until the eve of the draft. Many options were presented to the front office, but ultimately, the one they stuck with was keeping the overall selection and adding to the roster via draft.
Risacher’s first presser for the Hawks will be on Friday, June 28th.
