In the high-stakes environment of the Las Vegas Summer League, Washington Wizards rookie Alex Sarr endured a night he will hope to forget quickly. Engaged in a contest against the Portland Trail Blazers, Sarr experienced an unprecedented 0 of 15 shooting performance, setting a new standard for futility in Summer League history since at least 2017.
Historic Struggles
Sarr's difficulties on the court were glaring. He missed all seven of his three-point attempts and both of his free throws, epitomizing a game where nothing seemed to fall his way. Despite these shooting woes, Sarr’s presence was felt in other aspects of the game. In less than 30 minutes of play, he managed to pull down 9 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and contributed 3 blocks. These stats reflect his versatility and ability to impact the game beyond scoring.
Overall Performance in Summer League
This game against Portland encapsulates a concerning trend for Sarr, who has struggled with his shooting across all three Summer League appearances. He has failed to shoot above 35% in any game, resulting in a cumulative shooting percentage of just 19.5% from the field. His offensive struggles are visible in his average of 6.7 points per game. However, bright spots exist in his performances, as he is also averaging 6.7 rebounds and a notable 3 blocks per game. These defensive contributions highlight his potential value to the Wizards.
A Young Talent with Room to Grow
At only 19 years old, Sarr's professional career is just beginning. Before joining the Wizards, he spent the previous season in Western Australia, playing for the Perth Wildcats as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. This opportunity was designed to nurture young international talent, and Sarr’s robust defensive skills and ability to rebound and assist suggest that he has several foundational strengths to build upon.
Looking Towards Improvement
The transition from the NBL to the NBA Summer League is substantial and challenging. Many young players face difficulties similar to those Sarr is experiencing. The rigorous competition and heightened pace of play can expose even the most promising talents to harsh learning curves. Yet, the versatility Sarr displays flashes potential beyond his current shooting slump. His rebounding, playmaking, and shot-blocking abilities will serve him well as he adjusts to the competition level and strives to become a more consistent shooter.
For now, Sarr will need to focus on incremental improvements, particularly in his shooting mechanics and selection, to better capitalize on his opportunities. His current averages suggest a player still finding his rhythm, but with time and coaching, there is optimism that Sarr can turn his early struggles into a stepping stone for growth and development in his burgeoning career.