French Invasion: Top 5 NBA Players to Watch in 2024-25 Season
The NBA has witnessed a significant rise in international players dominating the league, with the last two drafts featuring Victor Wembanyama and Zaccharie Risacher as the top picks. French players, in particular, have made a significant impact, claiming the MVP award for the past six years. This season, 14 French players will take to the court in the NBA, and we’re highlighting the top five to watch.
5. Tidjane Salaun – Charlotte Hornets
Tidjane Salaun was considered a raw prospect in the draft, but his preseason performance has proven he’s ready to contribute. Averaging 11.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 27.9 minutes per game while shooting 40.5% from beyond the arc, Salaun will bring much-needed energy to the Charlotte Hornets.
4. Alex Sarr – Washington Wizards
As the No. 2 overall pick, Alex Sarr is expected to get plenty of playing time for the Washington Wizards. In his three preseason games, he averaged 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game, proving he has what it takes to develop into a key player.
3. Rudy Gobert – Minnesota Timberwolves
With the departure of Karl-Anthony Towns, Rudy Gobert becomes the primary center for the Minnesota Timberwolves. A four-time Defensive Player of the Year, Gobert will be key to the team’s success alongside Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.
2. Zaccharie Risacher – Atlanta Hawks
Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, could be the make-or-break factor for the Atlanta Hawks. With impressive preseason averages of 16.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, Risacher is expected to develop quickly alongside star guard Trae Young.
1. Victor Wembanyama – San Antonio Spurs
Last season’s Rookie of the Year, Victor Wembanyama, had a remarkable first year, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.6 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. With the addition of veterans Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes, Wembanyama’s development is set to accelerate, making him a must-watch in the 2024-25 season.
Honorable mentions include Nicolas Batum, Bilal Coulibaly, Guerschon Yabusele, and Ousmane Dieng, all of whom will be interesting to watch in the upcoming season.
The French invasion of the NBA is in full swing, and these top five players are set to make a significant impact in the 2024-25 season. Will they lead their teams to victory, or will they face challenges along the way? One thing is certain – these French NBA players are ones to watch.
