NBA: Zaccharie Risacher Eager to Begin His Adventure
Zaccharie Risacher, drafted in the first position by the Atlanta Hawks, expressed his excitement to start his NBA journey just two days before his debut match against Brooklyn. At 19 years old, the former Bourg-en-Bresse small forward declines any comparisons with Victor Wembanyama, also a top draft pick in 2023, stating, “He is a unique player, and I am simply in awe of what he does.”
Q: What is your mindset as you approach the season?
A: “I am super excited and enthusiastic. I can’t wait to start this adventure; it’s a childhood dream coming true. I feel even more excited and determined to contribute to the team, bring my game, and showcase the person I am within the group. I am happy to contribute to winning matches. That is truly the goal, and I hope to stick to it and progress together as a team.”
Q: What can you bring to the Hawks?
A: “I consider myself a versatile player. My strength lies in being able to do multiple things on the court, especially on the defensive end. I can defend various positions. Offensively, I have a role to play in three-point shooting, which is where I feel most comfortable. That’s what is needed here, and that’s what I am allowed to do. However, it could involve different aspects such as grabbing rebounds, fast breaks, finishing strong at the rim, moving without the ball, adapting to playing styles as required by the game flow and strategies in place.”
Q: Do you feel a special status after being the No.1 draft pick?
A: “I am very grateful to be part of this franchise. I share the same mindset as they do, focusing on daily hard work to contribute to the team’s success. That is what they expect from me more than anything else. I feel supported, knowing that they don’t expect me to immediately carry the franchise on my shoulders. I see ambitions around me and the team. I am fortunate to be part of this franchise where I can work seriously every day, knowing that I can grow and develop.”
Q: Is the comparison with Victor Wembanyama, also a top draft pick in 2023, a burden for you?
A: “For me, there is no comparison to be made with Victor. He is a unique player, and I am just admiring what he does. We come from the same country, have been through similar experiences a generation apart (Wembanyama is a year older than me). It’s incredible to have someone like him to look up to. We haven’t discussed this much; I don’t know him well, but he was kind enough to send me a congratulatory message.”
Q: Are you thinking about the French national team?
A: “Representing the French national team at the highest level would be a dream come true for me. I had the experience of doing so for the first time in February (in the Euro-2025 qualifiers), and it was a special feeling. I am familiar with the youth French teams. I know somewhat what to expect, and I am thrilled to aim for that. Knowing myself, I have always strived to achieve my dreams and goals, and the French team is part of it, it’s undoubtedly on my mind. I am thinking about Euro-2025, of course, it’s there in my thoughts.”
As Zaccharie Risacher embarks on his NBA journey with the Atlanta Hawks, his enthusiasm, versatility, and determination to contribute to the team’s success reflect a promising start to what could be a flourishing basketball career. With a focus on growth, development, and representing his country on the international stage, Risacher’s journey is one to watch as he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the world of basketball.