When the Atlanta Hawks chose Zaccharie Risacher with the first pick, the decision raised eyebrows. There was no distinguished elite talent in this year’s draft class. Even then Alex Sarr was touted to be the number one pick. At the end moment though, Risacher gained traction, but there was also an air of uncertainty. The feasibility of the Hawks’ decision would be tested in Las Vegas. Risacher and Sarr both went head-to-head in a blockbuster matchup today.

The game, a part of the intense NBA Summer League schedule, ended in a victory for Alex Sarr and the Washington Wizards. Despite the loss, the Hawks’ newly-minted French star demonstrated why he was worthy of the number one pick. Risacher was a powerhouse on the court, leading his team with 18 points, and impressing with his quick-release jump shot, hitting three triples on his debut. His contribution wasn’t limited to scoring; he also added 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal.

Unfortunately, there was barely any crowd to witness the number-one pick’s talents. Instead of experiencing the clash of the top two picks, Las Vegas fans preferred watching the most talked about prospect – Bronny James. A video going viral showed the stark difference in the crowd turnout for both the games.

When the Lakers faced the Houston Rockets, which was Bronny James’ Summer League Debut, the Thomas & Mack arena didn’t have a seat empty. Thousands gathered to get a glimpse of the 19-year-old and discover how he performs under the spotlight. The Wizards and Hawks played only a few hours later. However, the array of empty seats made it seem like it was a nonchalant basketball game when in reality it was the war of the top two picks.

Nonetheless, such situations are to be expected. Not only are the Lakers one of the historic franchises in NBA history, but Bronny James’ story has quickly become the talk of the town. Every NBA fan is curious to know how the son of LeBron James fairs out and whether his spot in the NBA is truly earned. It’s unfortunate for Zaccharie Risacher, who even as the number-one pick barely matches the buzz that Bronny brings to the league.

Zaccharie Risacher is willing to do anything asked of him

Risacher might not be attracting crowds, but that isn’t his focus. When he spoke at the introductory press conference, his message was concise. The number one pick was willing to do whatever it took to better the Hawks. His Summer League debut showed nothing less. In his time on the floor, not only did he look comfortable accommodating the pressure, but his versatility was key.

“I try to play the way we want me to play. So, like I said before, during the draft process, I’m ready to do whatever the coaches want me to do. So, if coach wants me to take 3s, I’m gonna take 3s. And if he wants me to be aggressive, I’m gonna be aggressive and that’s just a part of the player that I am and express myself on every side of every little thing,” he said after the game as per The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. 

After missing his first three looks, Risacher hit a silky jumper to score his first official NBA points. From there on, his confidence only grew. He shot 7 for 16 in his first game and hit three of his nine three-pointers. They eventually lost the game. But Risacher’s courage should be viewed positively by the Hawks.

Having lost Dejounte Murray in the offseason, the organization requires a solid second option behind Trae Young. Risacher fits the mold incredibly well. Moreover, he doesn’t require the ball to stay involved in the game, unlike Murray. It reduces the chances of any collision with Young for ball-handling duties.

If he can maintain his production and learn how to play with the elite point guard, Atlanta could have an established duo for the future.