In a performance that the Washington Wizards' rookie Alex Sarr would rather forget, the young forward registered a historic 0-for-15 shooting night in the Las Vegas Summer League match against the Portland Trail Blazers. Sarr's performance marked the most field goal attempts by a player without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
A Night to Forget
Despite his shooting woes, Sarr managed to contribute in other areas, finishing with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in less than 30 minutes of play. It was a testament to his hustle and determination, proving that even on an off night, he could still be a valuable asset on the court.
However, his struggles from the field have been a concerning trend. Across three Summer League games, Sarr has shot below 35% in each outing, leaving him with a meager overall shooting percentage of 19.5%. This has undoubtedly been a tough start for the 19-year-old, who has shown promise in other facets of his game.
Consistent Struggles
Sarr's shooting downturn was especially pronounced against Portland, where he missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both of his free throws. It's clear that his confidence has taken a hit, but the Wizards' coaching staff remains optimistic about his potential.
Despite his shooting struggles, Sarr has averaged 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game in the Summer League. His defensive presence has been noteworthy, with an average of 3 blocks per game, underscoring his ability to impact the game beyond just scoring.
A Promising Background
Before joining the Wizards, Sarr spent the previous season in Western Australia, playing with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. The experience in the NBL undoubtedly honed his skills, but the transition to the NBA Summer League has proven to be a formidable challenge.
Looking Forward
As the Summer League progresses, the hope is that Sarr can find his shooting rhythm and build on the promising aspects of his game. The young forward has shown flashes of his potential, particularly on the defensive end and in his rebounding ability. At just 19 years old, Sarr has ample time to adjust and develop in the competitive environment of the NBA.
For now, Wizards' fans and coaching staff will be watching closely, hoping that Sarr can shake off this tough start and showcase the talent that earned him a spot in the league. His journey is just beginning, and the coming games will be crucial for his confidence and development as a professional basketball player.
As Sarr continues to work on his game, he's likely to experience both ups and downs. Such is the nature of the sport, especially for a young player transitioning into one of the toughest leagues in the world. What remains indisputable is his potential to grow into a valuable player for the Washington Wizards.