Winner in New York (108-100) last night in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup, Zaccharie Risacher will see Las Vegas, and it will be to play… basketball, with the semifinal scheduled against Milwaukee this Saturday. Because he aims, like all his teammates, to win this mid-season tournament, but also because at 19 years old he has two springs left to be entitled to do something else there. “I’m too young to gamble and drink,” he admits without a hint of bitterness in the Hawks locker room after the win against the Knicks. It’s nice to have that extra gear halfway through the season: we can be proud of this victory and stay focused on the goal of winning the cup. »
In a game that ended in the third quarter for the Hawks, Zaccharie Risacher struggled offensively: just two points and numerous misses, particularly in three-pointers (1 of 8, including 0 of 4 from long range). but the significant thing is something else, and the Atlanta coach doesn’t blame him at all: “You shouldn’t overanalyze what he dose game after game”, confides Quin Snyder. The important thing is that you try to be competitive. He missed shots but defended himself well and, above all, does not hesitate to return to battle after a failure. He has had some critically important matches where he gave his all, but what matters is that he continues to resist.»
“It’s not my best game,” confirms the French winger. but I did my best. I tried to impact the game, respond in defense. I’m proud to defend and I like it.When there is less skill I don’t want to be the useless player. I’m not worried: there are bad matches, without success, but if you work in the end things go back to normal. »
“They pay us a lot of money to play basketball”
His only basket? A stunning dunk over the head of the extraordinary Karl-Anthony Towns in the heart of the second quarter. For the rest of the half he made himself available to his team, playing a rebound to miles McBride and stretching the opposing defense with his always judicious positioning. “I make sure I stay 100% throughout the match,” he explains. There isn’t a night where I’m 90% satisfied. We get paid a lot of money to play basketball, there’s no room for laziness. I’m not a robot and I can get tired sometimes but I manage my rest times intelligently. Let’s play 48 minutes of a game we love! It’s a real treat. »
The moast difficult part for him is almost the post-match: to develop his 91 kg, as soon as the match is over he does bodybuilding exercises in the corridors of Madison Square Garden, first the biceps and then the push-ups with a 45-pound weight plate on his back. His teammates Bogdan Bogdanovic and Clint Capela who pass by take the prospect to make fun of him. “This intensive training after matches is almost the most difficult,” he whispers. But I have to go through all this to progress. We are a young team who get along naturally and off the pitch. We managed to create an identity. We are not afraid of anyone. We are ready to play big games when necessary. »
For the rookie, number 1 in the last draft, it is a year of discoveries, and the visit to madison Square Garden, for his first time in new York, was therefore delicate on a personal level, like his compatriot Victor Wembanyama a year earlier , also in difficulty in the famous arena. “The fans are very active and expressive at the Garden,” says Risacher. the atmosphere is crazy. For basketball lovers it is a pleasure to play here. » Even more so when you win, with a teammate, Trae Young, who concentrated the public’s attacks there from a disputed playoff match, and has already won in 2021.
Risacher is perfectly surrounded in Atlanta. “I’m realy happy to be able to learn,” he adds before heading with the team to the airport that will take them to Las Vegas that night. To play with it. In basketball.
How dose participation in tournaments like the NBA Cup influence the growth and development of young athletes?
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this exciting edition of Time.news interviews! Today, we’re diving into the world of basketball and the recent NBA Cup quarterfinals with our guest, sports commentator and analyst, Jordan Smith. Thanks for joining us, Jordan!
Jordan Smith: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news Editor: So, let’s jump right into it. Last night, the hawks secured a victory against the Knicks, led by 19-year-old Zaccharie Risacher. Despite a challenging night with only two points, he seems to have a refreshing perspective on his youth and the tournament. What stands out to you about Risacher’s mindset?
Jordan Smith: That’s a great question! Risacher’s attitude is commendable. At just 19, he’s not only dealing with the pressures of professional basketball but also balancing the thrill of competing with the realities of being so young. His comment about being “too young to gamble and drink” showcases a level of maturity and focus that many his age might not possess.It indicates that he understands that this is a unique chance, and he values it.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. He might have struggled offensively, but his commitment to the team’s goals is clear. how critically important is it for young players like Risacher to maintain perspective in high-pressure situations like the NBA Cup?
Jordan Smith: It’s incredibly important. The NBA, especially a tournament like the Cup, can be draining both mentally and physically. Young players frequently enough feel the weight of expectations, so having a strong mindset helps them navigate challenges. Risacher’s ability to stay focused on the team’s objectives rather than his individual performance is a crucial trait. It speaks volumes about his potential to be a leader on and off the court in the future.
time.news Editor: You mentioned the Cup—it’s often seen as a mid-season highlight for teams. how do you think this tournament impacts team dynamics, especially for a young player like Risacher?
Jordan Smith: The mid-season tournament is a great testing ground for team chemistry and cohesion. For younger players, it’s a chance to step up, take on roles, and learn under pressure. The Hawks’ success so far gives Risacher the opportunity to grow alongside his teammates while facing tougher opponents. It can foster a sense of pride and work ethic, which are critical as he continues to develop his game.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of development, what are some key areas you think Risacher shoudl focus on moving forward, especially after this match where he struggled with his shooting?
Jordan Smith: For Risacher, improving his shooting consistency will be vital. He had a tough night with only 1 of 8 from three-point range. Working on shot mechanics and gaining confidence will be critical. Also, understanding the flow of the game and when to take quality shots versus forcing them will enhance his overall performance. Every player has ups and downs,but learning to adapt is what will separate him in the long run.
Time.news Editor: Wise words! Lastly, with the Hawks advancing to the semifinals against Milwaukee this Saturday, what are your predictions for that matchup?
Jordan Smith: It’s going to be a thrilling game! Milwaukee is a strong contender, but the Hawks have shown resilience. If their younger players, including Risacher, embrace the excitement and pressure of the tournament, thay could surprise everyone. Plus, if they can stick to their game plan and come out strong defensively, they might just pull off an upset!
Time.news Editor: Exciting times ahead! Thank you, Jordan, for sharing your insights with us today. We’ll be keeping an eye on Risacher and the Hawks in the semifinal match!
Jordan Smith: Thank you for having me! it’s been a pleasure discussing basketball with you.
