Alex Sarr continues to strengthen his case as one of many NBA’s most impactful rookies, and his newest milestone places him in uncommon firm.
Within the Washington Wizards’ 122–103 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night time, the 19-year-old posted 12 factors, three rebounds, 4 assists, one steal and one block.
Whereas his capturing on the night time was inefficient — simply 5-of-14 from the sector and 0-of-1 from three — the efficiency marked a historic achievement.
Sarr grew to become simply the third rookie in league historical past to report no less than 100 three-pointers made, 100 blocks and 100 assists in a single season. The one different gamers to achieve that benchmark: Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren.
The milestone displays Sarr’s versatility and flexibility within the fashionable NBA. At seven ft tall with the mobility of a wing, the French large man has showcased a dynamic talent set, providing rim safety, flooring spacing and playmaking from the frontcourt. His capability to defend the paint whereas flattening exterior photographs positions him as a key piece for a rebuilding Wizards crew.
Sarr has proven regular enchancment all through the season, enduring anticipated rising pains however rising stronger post-All-Star break. Because the break, he’s averaging 16.2 factors, 6.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.5 blocks per recreation. Whereas his total capturing numbers stay modest (.397/.311/.677), his 1.9 made threes per recreation spotlight his potential as a contemporary, two-way large.
Amongst rookies because the break, Sarr’s 373 complete factors rank second, trailing solely Rookie of the Yr frontrunner Stephon Fortress. His 43 three-pointers are fifth-most amongst rookies, together with guards, whereas his 34 blocks rank fourth.
Earlier this season, Sarr additionally grew to become the youngest participant in NBA historical past to achieve 60 made threes, 300 rebounds, 105 assists and 70 blocks in a rookie marketing campaign. He started his profession with six straight video games of a number of blocks, a feat matched solely by Shawn Bradley in 1993–94.
In a troublesome season for the Wizards, Sarr’s emergence has been a uncommon vivid spot — and a sign of hope for the franchise’s future.
