In the 1980’s Europeans and other international players began to migrate to the NBA. Guys like Detlef Schrempf, Vlade Divac and Šarūnas Marčiulionis began to leave strong impressions. Dražen Petrović and Toni
Kukoč were not far behind and soon European players, along with Latin Americans, began to carve out a significant niche.
Today, in many ways, Europeans have developed a superior system where young players spend much more time working on skills and practicing rather than playing as much as American kids tend to do.
The recent changes in college basketball that allow for player compensation has likely made the NCAA the second-best paying league and money will draw players.
That’s been true in the ACC and this year, Duke welcomes Italian Dame Sarr, who could have a major impact on this team.
At 6-8, Sarr has played for Barcelona, one of the better European pro teams. He’s a bit slender still, but he’s quick and has a chance at carving out a major role on this year’s team. From the Chronicle’s profile:
“Though Sarr has a smaller frame compared to other Duke forwards, he makes up for physicality with creative playmaking. From long range, Sarr excels at wearing down the defense to open up opportunities for the frontcourt. He has a twitchy playing style that leaves opponents little time to react with swift drives down the court and a fast-developing jumper.”
It’s too early to know how the rotation will shake out, but if Sarr focuses on defense, he could offer qualities that no one else can.
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