The Washington Wizards may not be competing for a championship this season, but they still have the potential to take significant steps forward, particularly through the development of Alex Sarr, the No. 2 pick in this year’s NBA Draft. Sarr, who had been the consensus favorite for the No. 1 spot for much of last season, was ultimately surpassed by fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher, who was selected first overall by the Atlanta Hawks.

Despite this, Sarr was an obvious choice for the Wizards, who are looking to establish a long-term cornerstone around whom they can build. However, his performance during the Summer League in Las Vegas raised some concerns. Sarr struggled to assert himself offensively, falling short of the expectations placed on a top draft pick and leaving some critics questioning his readiness to take on a leading role in the NBA.

In the game against the Trail Blazers in the Summer League, he went 0 for 15, and as expected the fans were onto the rookie. Many even called him a “bust” after just a single game, but since then he has shown some improvement in the preseason and now in the regular season as well.

“Alex Sarr has started his NBA career with a franchise record three consecutive games with 2+ blocks. He has 3 tonight early in the 3rd quarter,” according to Wizards insider Chase Hughes, indicating that he could improve gradually. Let’s take a look at his background to get more about the Wizards’ rookie.

Is Alex Sarr from Senegal or France? Looking into the nationality and ethnic background of the Washington Wizards’ rookie

Alex Sarr was born on April 26, 2005, in the city of Bordeaux, France, and was raised in Bordeaux and later in Toulouse. He is a French national. Although Alex hails from France he is of Senegalese descent due to his parents Massar and Marie Sarr. Additionally, his father is also a hooper and played professionally.

Alex Sarr’s parents, Massar and Marie, share French nationality as well. While there are not many details on the internet about his parents’ background their French identity is evident. This aligns with their son’s upbringing in Bordeaux, shaping his cultural connections and also contributing to France as a French basketball talent. He has represented the nation at multiple youth levels and won many accolades.

Who is Alex Sarr’s father Massar? A glance into the rookie’s childhood

Alex’s dad Massar was a former professional basketball player from Senegal. He introduced his kids to basketball pretty early, Alex picked up the ball when he was just four years old after being inspired by watching his dad and older brother play together. Oliver, who is Alex’s older brother, is also a professional basketball player.

Olivier Sarr has earned a two-way deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder and currently plays for them. He was even early to pick up the sport and started at just three guided by his father. Massar has been pivotal in shaping Alex’s as well as Olivier’s future, acting as the mentor and coach for his sons and has helped them to grow and become successful.