Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr experienced a night to forget at the Las Vegas Summer League, as he recorded an unprecedented shooting performance in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Sarr, just 19 years of age, went 0 of 15 from the field, marking the most field goal attempts by a player without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
A Night to Forget
Sarr's cold shooting streak was evident from the start as he struggled to find his rhythm against a Portland defense that continually stifled his attempts. Despite his off night, Sarr demonstrated hustle and determination on the court, finishing with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in under 30 minutes of play. It's a testament to his versatility and potential impact in the league beyond mere scoring.
Consistent Shooting Struggles
Throughout the Summer League, Sarr has faced challenges in maintaining shooting accuracy. Across three games, he has shot below 35% in each outing, culminating in an overall field goal percentage of 19.5%. Against Portland, his shooting woes extended beyond the arc, missing all seven of his three-point attempts and both of his free throws.
Statistical Breakdown
While Sarr's shooting performance has been underwhelming, he has contributed in other areas. He is averaging 6.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and an impressive 3 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive prowess and ability to impact the game without scoring. It's worth noting that his efforts on the boards and defensively were vital, even if his shots weren't falling.
Path to the NBA
Alex Sarr's journey to the NBA included a stop in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats, where he participated in the NBL's Next Stars program. This experience against seasoned professionals in the NBL provided Sarr with a solid foundation and a glimpse into the rigors of professional basketball.
Looking Forward
At just 19 years old, Alex Sarr has the time and potential to refine his game and develop into a more consistent scorer. The Summer League serves as a developmental platform, and the Wizards will no doubt emphasize patience and growth for their young prospect. Sarr's ability to impact other facets of the game, such as rebounding and shot-blocking, provides optimism for his future contributions.
Despite the shooting struggles, Sarr's all-around game and defensive capabilities are already catching the attention of those within the league. As he continues to adjust to the speed and physicality of the NBA, improvements in his shooting mechanics and confidence could follow, turning these early struggles into valuable learning experiences.
For now, Alex Sarr will look to put this historic shooting performance behind him, focusing on the areas where he has already shown promise while working hard to improve his offensive efficiency. If he can harness his versatile skill set and make strides in his shooting, the young forward has the potential to become a key piece for the Washington Wizards in the seasons to come.