Alex Sarr’s basketball journey has taken him from his hometown of Bordeaux, France, to the brink of the NBA. At just 14, Sarr left home to join Real Madrid’s youth team in Spain, beginning an adventure that would shape his future.
Chasing Competition Across Continents
In 2021, Sarr moved to Atlanta to join Overtime Elite, a program known for developing top-tier talents like Amen and Ausar Thompson. Last season, he sought better competition with the Perth Wildcats in Australia’s National Basketball League, where he averaged 9.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. Amid his travels, Sarr made time to visit his father’s family in Senegal.
Draft Day Anticipation
As one of the top prospects in an unpredictable draft, Sarr joins fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher and Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan in the spotlight. Comparisons to defensive stalwarts Jaren Jackson Jr. and Evan Mobley highlight his versatility and potential. Reflecting on his journey, Sarr said, “There’s a lot of uncertainty. In 24 hours, I won’t have the same problems. A great fit for me is whatever team is willing to take a chance on me.”
Basketball Roots and Rivalries
Alex Sarr’s basketball lineage is impressive. His father, Massar, played professionally in France, and his older brother, Olivier, currently plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Sarr first competed against Risacher in French youth tournaments, and they now share the excitement of the NBA draft. “We grew up together competing against each other, and now we’re here in New York for the draft,” Risacher noted.
The Next Chapter Begins
With the draft set for Wednesday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Sarr remains focused and optimistic. “Every time I was getting comfortable at a spot, I wanted to move and find a new challenge so I could get better,” he explained. Confident in his path and potential, Sarr added, “In 24 hours, that won’t be a problem.
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