In the realm of basketball, the NBA draft is one of the most anticipated events of the year. For 2024, all eyes are on Alex Sarr, a prodigious talent who has captivated the basketball community. But Sarr’s journey to the NBA is not just about his skills on the court; it’s also about his deep-rooted connection with a team that dominated his childhood: the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Alex Sarr: A Thunderous Beginning
Growing up, Alex Sarr was surrounded by the electric atmosphere of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s golden era. The 2010s were a period of intense excitement and competition, with the Thunder consistently being title contenders. Led by superstars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, the Thunder were a team that every young basketball enthusiast admired.
Alex Sarr revealed his affinity for the Thunder in a candid interview. “My brother first played for the Thunder on a two-way, that’s when I really liked starting looking at the Thunder a lot,” he shared. “I liked the Thunder back in the day when KD was playing there, too.”
Family Ties: The Influence of Olivier Sarr
Alex Sarr’s connection to the Thunder is deeply personal, influenced significantly by his older brother, Olivier Sarr. Olivier has been with the Thunder on a two-way deal for the last three seasons, playing a crucial role in the OKC Blue’s journey to the G League title. Unfortunately, his campaign was cut short due to a ruptured Achilles tendon, but his impact on Alex was profound.
Alex Sarr put his best foot forward at last week’s NBA Draft Combine in Chicago. 👀
Standing vertical leap: 30.5”
Max vertical leap: 37.0”
Lane agility test: 11.43 seconds
Shuttle run: 3.23 seconds
Three-quarter sprint: 3.27 secondsRead more: https://t.co/cc4VTh9d3Y
🎥: NBA pic.twitter.com/1Hks0TYIYJ
— Perth Wildcats (@PerthWildcats) May 21, 2024
The Next Chapter: NBA Prospects
Standing at an impressive 7 feet tall, Alex Sarr is poised to become the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA draft. His journey from a Thunder fan to an NBA prospect is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. The Atlanta Hawks are expected to pair Trae Young with the young big, but if they pass, the Washington Wizards have the second pick.
Alex Sarr’s potential debut against the Thunder next season adds an exciting narrative to his story. The possibility of playing against the team he grew up idolizing brings his journey full circle, from a fan in the stands to a player on the court.
A New Era of Basketball
As the 2024 NBA draft approaches, the basketball world eagerly awaits to see where Alex Sarr will land. His journey, marked by familial influence and a deep connection to the Oklahoma City Thunder, adds a layer of richness to his emerging career.
Whether he ends up with the Hawks, the Wizards, or another team, Sarr’s path to the NBA is a story of passion, dedication, and a lifelong love for the game.