Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr endured a night to forget at the Las Vegas Summer League, registering a historically poor shooting performance in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. The young prospect had a rough outing, missing all 15 of his field goal attempts, establishing a dubious record for the most field goal attempts without a make in a Summer League game since at least 2017.
A Historic Struggle
Despite his shooting woes, Sarr contributed in other facets of the game, collecting 9 rebounds, dishing out 3 assists, and blocking 3 shots in under 30 minutes of play. His effort on the defensive end and in facilitating play showcased aspects of his game that offer hope for his potential development.
This performance against Portland followed a pattern seen in Sarr’s other Summer League appearances. Across three games, he has struggled to find his shooting rhythm, managing to shoot below 35% in each contest. Overall, he holds a field goal percentage of just 19.5%, a figure sharply contrasting the expectations and hopes placed upon the rookie.
Statistical Snapshot
Sarr’s scoring average in the Summer League stands at 6.7 points per game, and he matches that number in rebounds, illustrating his ability to contribute on the boards. His defensive presence is also notable, as he averages an impressive 3 blocks per game in Las Vegas. However, his shooting troubles extend beyond just field goals. In the game against Portland, he missed all seven of his 3-point attempts and both of his free throws.
Background and Prospects
At only 19 years old, Alex Sarr is navigating the early challenges of professional basketball. His journey saw him cross continents, having spent the previous season in Western Australia with the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. This experience in the NBL provided a platform for his development, allowing him to test his skills against seasoned professionals.
While Sarr is currently facing difficulties on the offensive end, his physical attributes and defensive skills suggest a promising future. Such early career struggles are not uncommon among young players adjusting to the rigors of professional basketball in the United States. For Sarr, the key will be finding confidence and consistency in his shot, a task that undoubtedly will be a focus for the Wizards’ coaching staff moving forward.
As the Summer League progresses, all eyes will be on Sarr to see how he responds to this adversity. Young prospects often face a steep learning curve, and for Sarr, the journey is just beginning.