Some within the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly pushing for a different option with the first pick, instead of Alex Sarr and Zacchanie Risacher.

While the Atlanta Hawks have been linked to two talented French prospects in recent weeks, a new report claims one specific star from the NCAA ranks has fans in the front office with the No. 1 pick in June.

Despite the odds against them, the Hawks surprised everyone by landing the No. 1 overall seed in the NBA Draft lottery. This puts the team in a unique position it hasn’t been in for nearly 40 years. However, Atlanta has the unfortunate luck of having the No. 1 pick in a year considered one of the weakest draft classes in some time.

Also Read: Are the Atlanta Hawks and San Antonio Spurs Linked to Selecting a Trio of French Prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft?

This puts added pressure on their inexperienced front office to make the right choice when faced with an opportunity that doesn’t come around often. As we get closer to the June event, center Alex Sarr has been considered the Hawks’ likely pick at No. 1 overall. However, earlier this week a new report suggested that Sarr and fellow Frenchman Zacchanie Risacher were the favorites to top the overall standings. selection.

Well, another rumor suggests that there is now a third prospect creating momentum within the organization.

Donovan Clingan builds momentum to be Atlanta Hawks pick in 2024 NBA Draft

“There are rumors that (Donovan) Clingan has fans among the Hawks’ No. 1 constituency, which means there’s a lot left to play for between now and June 26,” ESPN NBA draft expert Jonathan Givony reported Friday.

While some selection committees view the UConn star as a player who falls behind the top 10 prospects in this year’s class, there’s plenty of momentum behind the defensive ace that has helped the Huskies to win back-to-back national championships. .

Donovan Clingan reportedly has a standing reach of 9-foot-7 and can dive without even jumping. He’s very athletic for his size, has great lateral movement, a high basketball IQ, a smooth shot that should improve at the next level, and he’s only 20 years old. Clingan is also considered a strong leader and he has made a major impact in that role for the defending champions.

Also Read: NBA Insiders Details Huge Upside Potential Linked to Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards in NBA Draft.