Unlike Scotty Hopson and Rob Edwards, signed at the same time as him to strengthen the workforce of the Thunder, Olivier Sarr has indeed removed his tracksuit to make his debut in the NBA last night, near Sacramento.
Deprived of several players inside, including Darius Bazley, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and, since yesterday, veteran Derrick Favors, the Oklahoma City franchise has therefore appealed to the young Frenchman of 22 years, who responded with 4 points (1/3 on shots), 5 rebounds and 2 blocks in just under 12 minutes of play.
“I’m not going to lie, I was a little nervous. I didn’t think they were going to throw me in the bath so soon. But it was fantastic. “
Seamless integration
While coach Mark Daigneault is also in isolation, it was his assistant Mike Wilks who took the lead and launched the former Kentucky on the boards for his big debut in the first quarter, with Théo Maledon in his sides and a first basket near the circle, perfectly served by Gabriel Deck.
“Honestly, I didn’t think I was going to be [en NBA] as fast. The last 24 hours, even 48 hours, have been crazy. But I am very happy. I am very happy to be here. I am grateful for the opportunity the Thunder has given me and I am ready to make my contribution to the team. “
In this constantly moving puzzle, Mike Wilks ensured that the integration of Olivier Sarr went well in the Thunder, with the presence of Théo Malédon who helps on the one hand, but also with regular communication with Grant Gibbs on the other. hand, the coach of Blue who has the same “playbook”, which facilitates the transition.
