A Night to Forget for Alex Sarr in Summer League Struggles
Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr experienced an unprecedentedly rough outing in the Las Vegas Summer League, recording a nightmarish 0 of 15 shooting performance in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. This dismal display set a historic mark, making Sarr the player with most field goal attempts without a single make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
Despite his struggles from the field, Sarr showcased a multifaceted game, finishing with 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks in just under 30 minutes of play. His effort on the boards and defensive end contrasted sharply with his inability to find the basket. Across three Summer League games, the young forward has not found his rhythm, shooting below 35% in each outing.
Since arriving in Las Vegas, Sarr’s overall shooting has been a point of concern. He is shooting just 19.5% from the field, a figure that he will need to improve to make a significant impact in the regular season. The Wizards will be hoping that these early struggles are merely growing pains for the 19-year-old, who has shown flashes of his potential, including averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game during the Summer League. Furthermore, his defensive impact is notable, with an average of 3 blocks per game.
In the game against Portland, Sarr missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and failed to convert both of his free throws, highlighting the difficulties he faced. Such a shooting performance can be disheartening, but his ability to stay active and contribute in other areas of the game speaks to his resilience and versatility on the court.
Last season, Sarr developed his skills in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. There, he was able to build a foundation that he now brings to the NBA, despite the rocky start. At just 19 years old, Sarr’s journey in professional basketball is just beginning, and there is ample time for him to grow and refine his game.
Summer League serves as a crucial platform for rookies and young players to adjust to the pace and physicality of the NBA. For Sarr, this period is an opportunity to learn and adapt. The Wizards’ coaching staff will undoubtedly be working closely with him to address his shooting woes and integrate his strengths into their system more effectively.
While his shooting struggles have cast a shadow over his Summer League performance, Sarr's defensive capabilities and rebound prowess offer a silver lining. There are still several games left in the Summer League, and Sarr has the chance to turn things around and show why he was considered a promising talent in the NBL's Next Stars program.
In conclusion, Alex Sarr’s rookie journey is just beginning. His historic off-night will undoubtedly serve as a learning experience, one that will contribute to his development as a player. The Washington Wizards and their fans will be supporting him as he looks to bounce back and tap into his full potential in the NBA.