The highly anticipated NBA Draft Lottery is set to take place this Sunday, determining the order of the first 14 picks for the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft. Unlike last year's lottery, which was dominated by the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes, this year's draft class lacks a clear-cut number one prospect. However, two French players, Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher, are projected to be at the top of the draft.

Alex Sarr, a 7-foot-1 center, made an impact this season playing for the Perth Wildcats in Australia's National Basketball League. He caught the attention of NBA scouts and executives during exhibition games in Las Vegas, showcasing improved motor skills and elite rim protection. Sarr's dominance in the paint against other lottery prospects solidified his position as a potential top pick. During his tenure with the Wildcats, Sarr averaged 9.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in just 18 minutes per game.

Meanwhile, Zaccharie Risacher, a 6-9 wing player, continues to impress in the LNB Pro A French League, where he currently plays for JL Bourg-en-Bresse. Risacher, whose father Stéphane was a six-time French League All-Star, has been an outstanding perimeter shooter throughout his career. This season, he has displayed better decision-making and improved facilitating skills, making him a valuable asset on the court. Shooting at an impressive 39% from beyond the arc on 3.5 attempts per game, Risacher's scoring prowess has garnered attention from NBA scouts.

In terms of the NBA Draft Lottery odds, the Detroit Pistons and the Washington Wizards have the best chances to secure the number one pick, both with a 14% likelihood. The Pistons, who had the top pick in the 2021 draft and selected point guard Cade Cunningham, are seeking to add more talent to their rebuilding roster. Meanwhile, the Wizards, who have not had a number one pick since 2010 when they drafted John Wall, are hoping to boost their squad after selecting Bilal Coulibaly with the seventh overall pick last year.

The NBA Draft Lottery is an intriguing event that determines the draft order for the first four picks through a random drawing. The remaining picks are then ranked based on teams' win/loss records. The lottery results will be broadcast live, with NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum revealing the sealed envelopes announcing the results.

As the excitement builds for the forthcoming NBA Draft, it is clear that the French prospects, Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher, are poised to make a significant impact on their respective teams. As the lottery unfolds, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await to see which franchise will have the privilege of selecting these promising talents.