Top 3 2024 NBA Draft picks: Who‘s most likely to receive their own shoe?
The NBA's grand spectacle is obviously when the two best teams from each conference battle it out in the Finals for the right to hoist the Larry O'Brien trophy. But right there with the NBA Finals is the annual NBA Draft, where the best collegiate and young international prospects hear their name called to pursue the next step in their basketball journeys. The 2024 NBA Draft was the first in league history to take place over two nights, with the first round taking place on June 26th, and the subsequent second round held on June 27th.
The talent pool in this year's class was noted for lacking any significant, generational prospects, which many fans and pundits have become accustomed to in recent years (Victor Wembanyama last year or Zion Williamson in 2019, for example). But the top three selections in the 2024 NBA Draft were made as follows: Zaccharie Risacher to the Atlanta Hawks at first overall, Alex Sarr to the Washington Wizards at second overall, and Reed Sheppard to the Houston Rockets at third overall.
Of course, at the top of these three picks' minds when entering the NBA is making a name for themselves with stellar on-court performances. Especially in a draft year where they've been unfortunately labeled a 'bad' class, it seems like all the players (regardless of where they were selected) have a chip on their shoulders to prove the doubters wrong. But not long after a player makes their way to the NBA, prominent sneaker brands keep an eye out for the next possible talent to help bolster their roster. Among the trio of Risacher, Sarr, and Sheppard, which player is most likely to secure a signature sneaker deal?
Wizards rookie Alex Sarr is probably the most likely to receive his own signature shoe, between the top three picks in the 2024 NBA Draft.
2024 NBA Draft - Round One | Sarah Stier/GettyImages
As it stands right now, it'd be a pretty safe bet to assume Alex Sarr will beat his two contemporaries, despite being the 2nd overall pick. I could see a world where Zaccharie Risacher gets his own sneaker too, but keep his scouting report and player analysis in mind. You're looking at a guy who was selected for team fit, not for his overall superstar potential, which many do not see Risacher as having. Many labeled him a Harrison Barnes or Tobias Harris-lite player. A forward who can help complement his star teammates, which he has in the form of star Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young.
2024 NBA Draft - Round One | Sarah Stier/GettyImages
Alex Sarr has the potential to blow Risacher and Sheppard right out of the gates and become an impact player for his Wizards team. They're severely lacking in front-court depth and Sarr will likely be the team's starting center going into his 2024-25 rookie campaign. If he can impress sneaker brands looking for their next young cornerstone, look no further than Alex Sarr. Heck, this might not even be that hot of a take, but I could see a scenario where 55th overall pick Bronny James gets his first shoe before any of these three players.
This article was originally published on underthelaces.com as Top 3 2024 NBA Draft picks: Who‘s most likely to receive their own shoe?.