Zaccharie Risacher has found his place in the French rotation: « I’m very comfortable »
Zaccharie Risacher (6’9″, 20 years old) seems to have found his role. Starting at the 3 position early in preparation, the projected #1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft has been coming off the bench since the end of preparation, with success. The Atlanta Hawks forward had a strong second half against Greece in the final pre-Euro test last Sunday before being quite sharp in his end-of-rotation role in the French team against Belgium (92-64) in the opening game Thursday.
The former LyonSO, ASVEL and Bourg player was efficient, first throwing down a huge dunk off an Alexandre Sarr assist before drawing a foul and going to the free throw line, then adding two corner 3-pointers. He finished as one of five French players in double figures, in just 18 minutes of playing time.
RISACHER MADNESS 🤯💥#EuroBasket x @FRABasketball pic.twitter.com/xo2o6rT3F3
— FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 28, 2025
« It went pretty well, » he says after the first win against Belgium. « We had a good first game. Defensively, we were present, we imposed our rhythm. And I think that’s going to be one of the keys to shine in this Euro. It’s very encouraging and sets a good pace for the rest of the competition. »
The role he’s been given seems to suit him. Most importantly, it’s now clear to him, which facilitates his production. « I’m very comfortable, » he states. « I feel good in this role. The good thing is that I know what’s expected of me. I know what I need to do to help the team win games. It suits me well. » A view shared by everyone, despite playing time being shared among all 12 players. « We’re all playing for the same thing. There are no egos. We all want what’s best for the team. And it’s really enjoyable to play under these conditions. »
In his Nicolas Batum-like role, playing extensively off the ball and being essential on defense, Zac’ Risacher also stands out in rebounding. Stephane Risacher’s son shows particular aggression on the offensive glass. But he insists he’s not trying to shine more than usual in this area. « I try to be aggressive, impose my qualities on my opponents, be in the right spaces to help my teammates. Play free, play simple. » This helps put him in confidence and rhythm, particularly for making shots. « When I do that, something always unlocks. That’s how my game is. »
« It would be foolish to say I’m afraid of Luka Doncic »
This Saturday, the French team will need his services on both ends of the floor against Slovenia. It will be Risacher’s first opportunity to face off against Luka Doncic, as the latter has never played against him in the NBA. A superstar who doesn’t necessarily intimidate him. « It would be foolish to say we’re afraid or that I’m afraid of Luka Doncic. » However, the challenge is real. « I’m super excited about this. He’s a very strong player who does many things. To stop him, we’ll need to do the job together. It will take great collective effort. » As for Doncic’s physical transformation, he doesn’t judge it as that significant. « In the past, he was very good, even with his extra 15 kilos. » Risacher particularly remembers his 47 points against France in the EuroBasket 2022 group phase. A memorable performance for the young man, who had watched the game on television during preparation with ASVEL. « It was an incredible game ». But for him, there’s no question of history repeating itself.
In Katowice,
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