The Barclays Center crowd was awaiting the moment the number one pick would be announced. Due to the draft class being fairly even across the board, there were multiple names fighting for the spot. The Hawks ultimately chose Zaccharie Risacher, a rising phenom from France. However, recently the words of his former foe might have the Hawks second-guessing their decision.

Frank Mason III was once a riveting NBA prospect and even won the G-League MVP honors during the 2020 season. However, after just four years in the NBA and bouncing in and out of the G-League he decided to ship his talents to France. “Played this young guy in France this past season; no way he’s the number one pick in the NBA draft lol, but I guess!” the former Sacramento Kings guard wrote on X. Playing for Nancy in France’s LNB Pro A, the 30-year-old point guard had a few battles with the young and explosive Rissacher. He found him to be an impressive basketball player, but Mason couldn’t wrap his head around one fact.

There was uncertainty over who the Hawks would select with their improbable number one pick until the very last second. Their picking Risacher did leave a few of their fans startled. While he is a budding prospect with major upside, the 19-year-old is yet to fully develop physically. He is thin and might find it difficult to adapt to the NBA’s physicality. Not to say that gym work can’t fix those weaknesses, but those are the current immediate concerns.

In his last season in France, Risacher averaged 10.1 points and 3.8 rebounds in 22 minutes per game. He has a pretty jump shot which also happens to be the most pronounced part of his game. As the number one pick, the entire NBA world will be watching the youthful French forward as the season comes around. His skills do justify his status, but can he translate his arsenal into the NBA?

Victor Wembanyama and Zaccharie Risacher make history

Last year, the arrival of Victor Wembanyama, a towering 7’4″ French center had the NBA going gaga. No one could comprehend the freak that had made its way to the league. He ran off with Rookie of The Year honors. His emergence also laid the foundation for the imminent rise of French basketball.

With Risacher being the first pick, it was the first time in the history of the NBA draft that no American college player was selected first in two consecutive seasons. But it wasn’t just the top representation that France achieved. The top six picks included three French prospects. “We try to represent our country and so, glad to be a part of it. You know there is more players coming in,” Risacher said issuing a warning for what’s brewing in his country.

The 19-year-old boasts limitless potential as far as his basketball acumen and skills go. He has achieved the dreamy objective of earning his place in the NBA. Now he is preparing for the most vital chapter of his life. The Hawks will hope Risacher’s raw potential can materialize into something great as is the popular consensus.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.