In a night where Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr would prefer to look forward and not back, he stumbled through a historic performance in the Las Vegas Summer League, shooting an unprecedented 0-of-15 from the field in a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Sarr's performance set an unenviable record, as he made the most field goal attempts without a single make in a Summer League game since at least 2017. The 19-year-old managed to gather 9 rebounds, dish out 3 assists, and block 3 shots in just under 30 minutes of play, but the glaring shooting woes overshadowed his otherwise solid contributions.
A Rough Stretch
This rough shooting performance is part of a broader trend for Sarr during the Summer League. Across three games, he has struggled mightily from the field, shooting below 35% in each outing. Overall, his field goal percentage stands at a mere 19.5%, a figure that underscores his ongoing adjustment to the competitive pressures and speed of the NBA.
While Sarr's scoring efficiency has been wanting, his averages of 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game show that he can still make an impact on the boards. Additionally, with 3 blocks per game, Sarr has demonstrated his capability as a defensive presence, leveraging his length and athleticism to protect the rim.
Shot Selection and Struggles
Against Portland, Sarr missed all seven of his three-point attempts and both of his free throws, further compounding the struggles he faced. It's clear that adjustments in shot selection and perhaps a refocus on fundamentals could aid in turning around his shooting percentages.
At just 19 years old, Sarr's journey is only beginning. Last season, he was part of the NBL's Next Stars program, playing for the Perth Wildcats in Western Australia. This experience of competing at a professional level overseas is invaluable, but the transition to the NBA's pace and style is evidently a significant leap.
Developing Potential
Despite the challenging start, the potential within Sarr is undeniable. The combination of size, rebounding ability, and shot-blocking prowess sets a foundation that can be built upon. Consistent development, coaching, and the natural maturation of a young player should eventually see improvements in his shooting consistency.
The Wizards organization and fans will certainly be patient, understanding that player development is a long-term investment, particularly for a rookie with the upside that Sarr possesses. As the Summer League continues, Sarr will have more opportunities to refine his game and demonstrate his growth on the court.
In the high-pressure environment of the NBA, such learning experiences are as valuable as they are trying. Each outing, including the tough ones, contributes to the overarching development of a player aiming to make a lasting impact in the league.