“The Washington Wizards have endured a disappointing 2023-24 NBA season, marked by a series of setbacks. With a league-worst record of 11-57, their hopes for a successful season were dashed early on, even before the All-Star Break.
Compounding their woes, the Wizards have been eliminated from contention for the NBA Play-In Tournament. Adding to their challenges, one of their key players, Bilal Coulibaly, suffered a significant injury during a game against the Chicago Bulls. Coulibaly, the seventh overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and a former teammate of Victor Wembanyama, sustained a right wrist fracture, according to ESPN reports.
Fortunately, Coulibaly’s injury does not require surgical intervention. However, with only 14 games left in the season and little to play for in terms of playoff contention, the Wizards have no incentive to rush his recovery.
Despite the team’s struggles, Coulibaly emerged as one of the bright spots of the season. As one of the youngest players in the NBA, not turning 20 until July, he showcased his talent by averaging 8.4 points per game. He also demonstrated proficiency from beyond the arc, making 34.6 percent of his 3-point attempts on 2.9 tries per game. Coulibaly’s scoring consistency, including five consecutive games in double figures, provided a glimmer of hope amidst the team’s challenges.
Throughout the season, Coulibaly’s offensive role expanded rapidly, with the coaching staff entrusting him with greater responsibilities. Despite the pressure, he maintained composure and showed promise as a multi-positional defender, standing at 6’6”. The Wizards are banking on Coulibaly’s potential to evolve into a dynamic two-way player, especially as they navigate through the early stages of a rebuild.
