The Washington Wizards made a significant move in the NBA draft on Wednesday night, selecting French center Alexandre Sarr with the second overall pick. This marks the Wizards’ highest draft selection in 14 years, aimed at addressing their need for size following a challenging season where they managed only 15 wins.
Sarr, a 7-footer, most recently played for the Perth Wildcats in Australia after spending two years in the U.S. with Overtime Elite. Known for his defensive prowess and mobility, Sarr showcased his skills with notable performances, including a standout game against NBA G League Ignite where he recorded 26 points, 10 rebounds, six blocks, and three assists during the 2023 G League Fall Invitational. In his 27 games with Perth, he averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in just over 17 minutes per game.
The Wizards, who have struggled to advance in the playoffs since 1979, have only picked in the top two of the draft three times since then. Their previous No. 2 pick, Wes Unseld in 1968, eventually led the franchise to a championship.
In addition to drafting Sarr, the Wizards agreed to trade 23-year-old forward Deni Avdija to Portland for Malcolm Brogdon, the 14th overall pick in this year’s draft, and a first-round pick in 2029. This deal gives Washington three first-round picks, including the 26th overall.
The order of the top two picks—French teen Zaccharie Risacher going first to Atlanta and Sarr second to Washington—was anticipated but not confirmed until draft night.
