Nov 3, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher (10) brings the ball up court against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

'We Established a Connection During the Year' – Atlanta Hawks Youngster on Why He’s Excited to Play With Trae Young Again

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 8:30 PM ET

Zaccharie Risacher is going into this second season with the Atlanta Hawks, and the young Frenchman can’t wait to build off his successful rookie campaign, where he earned an NBA All-Rookie First Team selection.

Last year’s first overall pick said that he owes much of his early success in the league to veteran point guard Trae Young, so Risacher can’t wait to get back on the court with him this upcoming season.

“I feel like we established a connection during the year,” Risacher told Pijus Sapetka of BasketNews. “Honestly, it was great for me to play with him. Obviously, he’s one of the best passers in the league.”

Feb 28, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

“I feel like I was lucky to start in the NBA, my rookie season with him by my side,” he continued. “Yeah, just a great guy outside the court, too. It’s exciting to see him again in September.”

Atlanta Hawks News: Zaccharie Risacher lauds the team’s roster moves this offseason

In the same interview, Zaccharie Risacher is happy with the Atlanta Hawks’ moves this offseason. The Frenchman is particularly excited about the addition of Kristaps Porzingis, whom he has faced in this year’s FIBA EuroBasket tournament.

Jun 9, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts after a play against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter in game two of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

“I feel like it’s going to be great. I talked to him a little bit, and he seems like a great guy, but honestly, I’m more focused on the Euro for now,” Risacher said about Porzingis.

“It’s kind of hard to project myself into this new team in the NBA for next season,” he added. “But obviously, I think it’s a great move.”