In a Las Vegas Summer League game that Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr will likely want to forget, he recorded a historic 0 for 15 shooting performance in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Sarr's shooting struggles marked the most field goal attempts without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017, highlighting a challenging night for the young player.
Despite the dismal shooting display, Sarr managed to contribute in other areas on the court. He finished the game with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in less than 30 minutes of play, showcasing his ability to influence the game beyond scoring. This performance is particularly notable given his age and recent transition to the NBA.
At just 19 years old, Sarr spent last season in Western Australia playing for the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program, a developmental initiative meant to prepare young international players for the NBA. His journey from the NBL to the NBA Summer League has shown flashes of potential, even if his shooting has been inconsistent.
Summer League Struggles
Over the course of three Summer League games, Sarr has consistently struggled with his shooting, managing to shoot below 35% in each outing. Overall, his shooting percentage stands at a troubling 19.5%. It's clear that finding his rhythm and confidence on the offensive end remains a work in progress for the teenager.
In addition to his woes against the Trail Blazers, Sarr missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both of his free throws, further emphasizing his tough night. Yet, his performance still offered some positive takeaways, particularly his defensive prowess and rebounding ability.
Rebounding and Blocking Ability
Sarr's averages in the Summer League indicate a more well-rounded contribution beyond just scoring. He is currently averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, with an impressive 3 blocks per game. These numbers suggest that while his offensive game needs refinement, he has the tools to contribute significantly on the defensive end and on the boards.
The young center's ability to protect the rim has been a standout aspect of his game in Las Vegas, as evidenced by his consistent block numbers. Defense, often considered a reliable metric for early success in young big men, could be Sarr's ticket to more playing time and development opportunities.
Looking Forward
As the Summer League continues, Sarr will have more opportunities to improve his shooting and overall game. His current performance underscores the learning curve faced by many young players making the leap to the NBA. The Wizards coaching staff will undoubtedly be focused on helping him develop his offensive skills while continuing to harness his defensive abilities.
While a 0 for 15 shooting night is far from ideal, it's part of the growing pains many rookies experience. For Alex Sarr, this stumbling block could serve as a valuable learning experience going forward. With his age, physical tools, and the Wizards' investment in his development, there's still plenty of room for optimism about his future in professional basketball.