In a Las Vegas Summer League game that Alex Sarr will likely want to forget, the Washington Wizards rookie etched his name into the record books for all the wrong reasons. Sarr's shooting performance was nothing short of historic but not in the way any player would hope. Finishing 0 of 15 from the field, Sarr set a new mark for the most field goal attempts without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite his struggles with shooting, Sarr's stat line was not completely devoid of positive contributions. In just under 30 minutes of play, the 19-year-old amassed 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks, demonstrating his ability to affect the game beyond scoring. However, his inability to find the basket was glaring, particularly given that he missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both of his free throws in the Wizards' loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Struggles in Summer League
This difficult outing against the Trail Blazers wasn't an isolated incident for Sarr during the Summer League. Across three games, he has consistently struggled with his shooting, failing to surpass a 35% shooting percentage in any of them. Overall, Sarr is shooting a mere 19.5% from the field, a figure that underscores the challenging transition he is experiencing at the professional level.
In spite of his shooting woes, Sarr's averages of 6.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game indicate he is finding other ways to contribute. His defensive presence, particularly his shot-blocking, has been a highlight, offering a glimpse of the potential impact he could have once he finds his footing offensively.
From Australia to Las Vegas
Prior to joining the Wizards, Sarr spent the previous season in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. This stint was designed to help young prospects develop their skills in a competitive environment, preparing them for the challenges of professional basketball. Despite the high hopes, the jump to the NBA's Summer League has proved to be a significant hurdle for the young forward.
The adjustment period for Sarr, as evidenced by his shooting percentages, is ongoing. The transition from the NBL to the NBA, even in the Summer League context, is substantial, and Sarr's early performances reflect the growing pains that come with such a move. His youth at 19 years old and his raw potential suggest that, in time, he may find the consistency he needs to make a significant impact in the league.
Looking Ahead
Sarr's early struggles are not uncommon for young players stepping into the professional spotlight. Summer League is often a trial by fire for rookies, a test of resilience as much as skill. For Sarr, the immediate focus will likely be on improving his shooting mechanics and building confidence in his offensive game.
The Wizards organization and fans alike will be watching closely to see how he responds to these early challenges. With his evident defensive abilities and rebounding prowess, the foundation is there for Sarr to become a well-rounded player. The key will be how quickly he can adapt to the speed and physicality of the NBA game, and how effectively he can translate his potential into consistent performance on the court.
While this particular game in Las Vegas will stand as a stark reminder of the difficulties of professional basketball, it also provides a base from which Sarr can grow. His journey is just beginning, and if he can couple his defensive instincts with improved shooting efficiency, the Washington Wizards may yet see the promise that Alex Sarr brings to their roster.