French Prospect Tidjane Salaun Set to Make Waves in NBA Draft
Introduction
One look at Tidjane Salaun's name might conjure confusion among American audiences, unfamiliar with the pronunciation intricacies that accompany it. However, the basketball world is quickly becoming acquainted with this rising star. Salaun's significant leap in the pre-draft process has set the stage for him to be a top-10 selection in the 2024 NBA Draft at the end of the month.
A New Generation of French Talent
Though the term "French New Wave" is typically used to describe a pioneering film movement of the 1950s, it could also apply to the recent influx of basketball talent from France. Following in the footsteps of last year's No. 1 pick and reigning Rookie of the Year, Victor Wembanyama, Salaun is slated to be a lottery pick. In fact, the top two picks could also be Frenchmen: Alexandre Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher. Salaun has flown under the radar despite having the talent and profile to develop into the most accomplished of the trio.
Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 200 pounds, Salaun boasts virtually unlimited potential as a wing. His sweet shooting stroke and elastic athleticism have already drawn considerable attention.
Statistical Prowess
At Cholet, Salaun averaged 14 points, six rebounds, and two steals per 36 minutes, showing strong performance, especially as the season progressed. His shooting form is pure, hinting that his current 33% mark from 3-point range could improve to around 40% with further development and repetitions. Salaun averaged over a point per possession in catch-and-shoot situations, showcasing deep range and proficiency both above the break and from the corners. Additionally, he has demonstrated the ability to shoot off movement, making 3-pointers with confident ease coming off screens.
Around the rim, Salaun averaged 1.29 points per shot, according to Synergy Sports. This is an impressive mark for an 18-year-old playing against stronger, more developed defenders. With his length and end-to-end speed, Salaun can outrun defenders down the court, securing several buckets each game just by getting out on the break. He also uses his length and basketball IQ to become a one-man fast break, intercepting passes, picking up steals, and finishing with athleticism on the other end.
Areas for Improvement
Defensively, Salaun has room for growth in terms of lateral quickness and strength. However, the signs are there for him to become a strong defender once he refines these aspects. Another area to watch is his shot creation, as most of his points currently come off the catch and in transition. Developing go-to moves in the half-court will be crucial in determining his ceiling, and fortunately, Salaun is already aware of this need. The speed and scale of his improvement are likely to be boosted by his determination, which he has already displayed at a young age.
After a playoff loss to Paris, Salaun called out teammates who he felt were not bringing the necessary energy, showcasing his leadership qualities.
Potential Landing Spots
Given Salaun's physical tools, work ethic, motor, and leadership qualities, it's no surprise that many experts project him to be taken in the lottery of the June 26 draft. The San Antonio Spurs are one team generating significant buzz, potentially using the eighth pick to pair him with countryman Wembanyama. Last year, Wembanyama's teammate in France, Bilal Coulibaly, rose up draft boards in a similar fashion before being drafted No. 7 overall by the Washington Wizards. Despite expectations that he would require significant development time, Coulibaly contributed immediately with averages of eight points, four rebounds, and two assists in 63 games, including 12 starts.
Salaun could follow a similar path and become a household name sooner than anticipated if he lands in the right situation.
Final Thoughts
Salaun is certainly a work in progress, but his potential is undeniable. Keeping pronunciation flashcards handy might be a wise choice, as Tidjane Salaun could soon become a name basketball fans hear frequently.
Quotes
"For me, Tidjane is the best prospect in the draft."
"Let's say we can visualize in maybe 10 years; I think Tidjane will be one of the best players from this draft."
"Tidjane has much to show to the world. He can develop a lot."
"The important point to mention about Tidjane is his confidence. He can miss three shots, but he will make the next one."
"He has 100% confidence in his ability. He's very joyful."
"I would like to improve on my dribble and create more situations for myself and my teammates, and be more efficient from the 3 and midrange. I work a lot on my midrange."
"For me, it's a kind of leadership to say that in front of the media. It shows confidence in his qualities and abilities."
"For Tidjane, it's a process, step by step. The shot is still in progress, but athleticism was already present from the beginning."
"I'm not a scout -- just a journalist -- but for me, it's a process and there are no huge weaknesses."