Zaccharie Risacher praised his former teammate Trae Young while leading the Atlanta Hawks to a 117-100 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday at State Farm Arena. “A guy you know is my brother…from day one he always…had my back,” Risacher said, reflecting on his friendship with Young.
“I’m just grateful to be able to say that I was on our way path…if he’s happy, I’m going to be happy for him,” he added. Risacher described the trade as an emotional moment for both players and the organization. “It was deep. There were a lot of emotions from both,” he said.
On the court, Risacher had a standout night, scoring efficiently and contributing across multiple areas. “I was able to help my team in different ways offensively…but also defensively,” he said. “I take a lot of pride in playing on both ends…guarding multiple positions.”
The Hawks snapped a two-game skid with seven players scoring in double figures, including Jalen Johnson’s 19 points and eight rebounds, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 17 points. Risacher credited his preparation and work ethic for his performance. “I just kept grinding no matter what. If I don’t make a shot, I’m going to work the same every day,” he said.
He also highlighted the support from his teammates. “I’m in a good position to work every day with a lot of great people around me…experience of my teammates…can really help me develop as a player,” Risacher said.
Atlanta controlled the game early, building a nine-point lead in the first quarter and maintaining a 23-point advantage by the fourth. The Hawks executed efficiently without Young, who sat in street clothes with a quad contusion after being traded to Washington for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert.
New Orleans was led by Zion Williamson with 22 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, while Jordan Poole added 21 and Bryce McGowens contributed 20. The Pelicans shot 44 percent from the field and 29 percent from three-point range, remaining unable to match Atlanta’s pace.
“It’s hard ‘cause it’s the middle of the season and you still want to perform on the court,” Risacher said. “You have to disconnect at some point to focus on your job, which is winning basketball games and trying to be the best version of ourselves.”
With the win, Atlanta improved to 18-21 and moves closer to the Eastern Conference playoff picture. The Hawks will face the Denver Nuggets on Friday, while the Pelicans return home to play the Washington Wizards.
