In a Las Vegas Summer League that often serves as a stage for young talent to shine, Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr had a night he'd likely prefer to forget. Sarr's game against the Portland Trail Blazers will be remembered for all the wrong reasons, as he recorded a historic 0 for 15 shooting performance, the most field goal attempts without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite his shooting woes, Sarr managed to make an impact on the game in other ways. The 19-year-old collected 9 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and recorded 3 blocks in less than 30 minutes of play. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game are clear indicators of his potential, even on a night when his shots simply wouldn’t fall.
However, Sarr’s struggles from the field were not isolated to this single game. Through three Summer League outings, he has shot below 35% in each appearance, culminating in an overall shooting percentage of just 19.5%. These numbers are concerning for a player who was expected to make an immediate impact. His average of 6.7 points per game reflects these struggles, but his efforts on the boards and on defense cannot be overlooked, as he is also averaging 6.7 rebounds and 3 blocks per game.
Against Portland, the struggles reached a crescendo. Sarr missed all seven of his three-point attempts and both of his free throws. The toll of these missed opportunities was evident on the scoreboard, as the Wizards fell short in the contest. Yet, it would be shortsighted to define Sarr’s potential by these early setbacks in the highly competitive environment of the Summer League.
Sarr’s journey to the NBA has been a unique one. Prior to joining the Wizards, he played last season in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. This initiative is designed to develop young international talent, giving them a platform to showcase their skills before making the leap to the NBA. His time with the Wildcats undoubtedly helped him develop aspects of his game, particularly his defensive skills, which were on display even during his tough shooting night.
For a young player like Sarr, the transition to the NBA is fraught with challenges. Competing against seasoned opponents and adapting to the pace and physicality of the league is no small feat. While his shooting struggles are a notable storyline, it’s important to recognize the context of his performances. Many players have faced similar obstacles early in their careers before finding their footing and flourishing at the highest level.
Summer League games are a learning experience, providing a glimpse into areas requiring growth and adjustment. For Sarr, the focus will likely be on refining his shooting mechanics and developing consistency from the field. His ability to rebound, block shots, and contribute to team play suggests a multifaceted skill set that, if harnessed correctly, could translate into a successful NBA career.
At 19 years old, Alex Sarr is still in the early stages of his basketball journey. While his 0 for 15 night is a statistic that will stand out, it is not the sole measure of his potential or future success. As the Summer League continues, the Wizards and their fans will be eager to see how he responds to these challenges and grows from the experience.
The NBA is a league of opportunity and redemption, and for Sarr, every game is a chance to prove his worth and develop into the player many believe he can become. Whether through improving his shooting percentages or continuing to be a defensive anchor, his journey is one to watch as he navigates the early chapters of his professional career.