Alex Sarr, projected top-3 pick, declares for 2024 NBA draft - ESPN

Alex Sarr, the projected No. 2 pick, has declared for the 2024 NBA draft, he announced on ESPN's «NBA Today» Friday.

«I had a great year playing professional basketball in the NBL,» Sarr told ESPN. «There was a lot of growth in my game and as a person. I'm ready for the next step so it was obvious for me to declare for the draft. I'm grateful for the year I spent in the NBL with the Perth Wildcats.»

Sarr is coming off a productive season in Australia, helping Perth reach the NBL playoff semifinals averaging 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 17 minutes per game.

«Being part of the NBL Next Stars program was a great experience,» Sarr said. «I had great teammates in Perth, good vets to teach me about the NBL game. The NBL is a really good platform for improving. You play meaningful games where winning games is everything. That's how you really improve. „

Sarr put NBA scouts on notice of his candidacy as the potential No. 1 pick in the draft in September in a memorable two-game series against G League Ignite in Las Vegas, posting 21.5 points, 8.5 rebounds aand 6 blocks per game, including a barrage of 3-pointers and highlight reel dunks.

“It didn't surprise me what happened in Las Vegas,» Sarr said. «It was a product of the work I put in every summer. I know what I am able to do, so this is what I was expecting, to showcase how much improvement I've made.»

Sarr is one of the most physically gifted prospects in this class, standing 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-4 1/2 wingspan and outstanding athletic ability. He covers ground fluidly, is quick off his feet as a finisher and rim-protector, and has the potential to emerge as one of the best defenders in this class ultimately with his ability to guard smaller players on the