Sarr favored to be top pick at NBA Draft, with Risacher and Clingan looming

Tony Reyes
By , Updated on: Jun 6, 2024 12:00 AM
Three basketball players in their respective team jerseys are captured in this black-and-white image. The player on the left wears a jersey with

With the playoffs drawing to a close, all eyes are on the 2024 NBA Draft lottery, where the Atlanta Hawks have the coveted No. 1 pick, a position that could shape the league's future.

Mark your calendars for June 26 and 27, as the 2024 NBA Draft promises to be a game-changer.

Before you make any wagers on an NBA Draft prop, check out our NBA Draft page, which provides valuable information.

One of the most significant developments is the decision of Bronny James, son of the legendary LeBron James, to enter the draft, a move that could redefine the league's landscape.

While James has garnered much of the pre-draft attention, Alexandre Sarr is widely expected to be the top pick.

The French big man is favored across top sports betting sites, with his main competition being fellow Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher and UConn star Donovan Clingan.

The intrigue remains high despite being considered one of the weakest NBA draft classes in recent history.

Who will be the top pick? And will a team draft Bronny James in hopes of attracting his legendary father, LeBron James?

2024 NBA Draft Top Pick Odds

Odds to be #1 PickBetOnlineBetUSBovada
Alex Sarr-190-200-210
Zaccharie Risacher+165+150+275
Donovan Clingan+900+800+1200
Ron Holland+2200+3000+3000
Reed Sheppard+2500+2500+3000
Rob Dillingham+4000+3000+3500

Alexandre Sarr

France is poised to produce the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft for the second consecutive year, following Victor Wembanyama's selection by the San Antonio Spurs in 2023.

While Alexandre Sarr may not reach Wembanyama's level, the 7-foot-1 center is considered to have the most potential in a relatively weak draft class.

During the 2023-24 season, Sarr played for the Perth Wildcats in the Australian National Basketball League, averaging 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.

His performance is notable, considering he only played 17 minutes per game and was hampered by a hip injury.

With his defensive prowess and explosiveness, Alexandre Sarr has drawn comparisons to Jaren Jackson Jr., the 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

Sarr would give the Hawks a genuine rim protector to bolster their struggling defense.

Alexandre Sarr NBA Draft #1 Pick
BetOnline
-190

Zaccharie Risacher

While Sarr is the frontrunner for the No. 1 pick, his strongest competition comes from his fellow Frenchman, Zaccharie Risacher. Standing at 6-foot-10, Risacher is a long, small forward known for his defensive versatility and shooting potential.

Like Sarr, Risacher played professionally in 2023-24, which limited his ability to post impressive stats.

Nonetheless, he averaged 10.1 points and 3.8 rebounds over 22 minutes per game and was named the Best Young Player in the LNB Elite, France's top-tier men's professional league.

Unlike Sarr, Risacher is a more polarizing prospect. Some draft analysts rank him as high as No. 1, while others place him outside the top 10.

He has been compared to Michael Porter Jr. for his size and scoring potential.

Zaccharie Risacher NBA Draft #1 Pick
BetOnline
+165

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Donovan Clingan

With the shortest odds among NCAA basketball players, UConn's Donovan Clingan has become a household name after helping the Huskies secure back-to-back March Madness titles.

The 7-foot-2, 280-pound center, affectionately known as "Cling Kong" for his imposing size and shot-blocking ability, averaged 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 1.5 assists last season.

His impressive performance throughout the NCAA Tournament boosted his draft stock significantly.

While Sarr and Risacher are celebrated for their athletic potential, Clingan is seen as a higher floor player. He is expected to be a solid starting center for years to come, though he may lack All-Star potential.

Comparisons have been drawn between Clingan and both Roy Hibbert and Ivica Zubac.

Donovan Clingan NBA Draft #1 Pick
BetOnline
+900

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Meet the author

Tony Reyes

With years of experience as an analyst, Tony brings an expert voice to picks and predictions. His passion for sports betting is evident in his coverage, which not only informs and entertains but also shares his love for the game. When he's not watching or covering t...

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