Sarr & Penda Shine: French Stars Light Up NBA Summer League
French Prospects Dominate Opening Weekend
The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas saw a pair of promising young French players leave an indelible mark on the opening weekend. Alex Sarr, a 20-year-old pivot from Borbiculli, and Noah Penda, a 20-year-old wing from Normandy, showcased their skills and paved the way for meaningful minutes against formidable opponents.
Alex Sarr Achieved a Double-Double
Alex Sarr, drafted 2nd overall by the Washington Wizards last year, dominated the paint in their Sunday victory over the Brooklyn Nets. In 29 minutes of play, Sarr scored 16 points (7/15 FG), grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out 8 assists – an impressive stat line that caught the eye of many in attendance.
He was not the only French player making waves, as Nolan Traoré, drafted 19th by the Nets, contributed with 7 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists in 28 minutes off the bench.
Noah Penda: The Rebounding Machine
Across town, Noah Penda, drafted 32nd by the Boston Celtics before being traded to the Orlando Magic, had a statement performance in his Summer League debut. Penda scored 9 points (4/9 FG) and snared a game-high 14 rebounds to lead the Magic in their tight loss to the Toronto Raptors.
Meanwhile, Léopold Delaunay, a 23-year-old guard from Le Mans, played his first minutes with the Golden State Warriors, totaling 6 points and 7 rebounds in 17 minutes.
As the Summer League continues, ten franchises remain undefeated, with San Antonio, Toronto, Detroit, and Oklahoma City currently sitting atop the leaderboard for the semi-finals. However, Dallas Mavericks fans will have to wait a bit longer to see their top pick, Cooper Flagg, in action, as the team has decided to preserve him, following the Spurs’ precedent with Victor Wembanyama two years ago.
Did you know?
Alex Sarr and Noah Penda aren’t the only French prospects making waves in the NBA. Keep an eye on Pacôme Dadiet, Mohamed Diawara, and Léopold Delaunay as they continue to make their marks in the league.
Looking Ahead
With many young players getting their first taste of NBA competition, the Summer League promises to deliver an exciting showcase of talent for the coming season. Stay tuned to 247Sports for all the latest news and updates from the world of basketball.