{"id":104270,"date":"2024-10-31T13:54:44","date_gmt":"2024-10-31T17:54:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=104270"},"modified":"2024-10-31T13:54:44","modified_gmt":"2024-10-31T17:54:44","slug":"wizards-set-to-make-bilal-coulibaly-decision","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2024\/10\/31\/wizards-set-to-make-bilal-coulibaly-decision\/","title":{"rendered":"Wizards Set to Make Bilal Coulibaly Decision"},"content":{"rendered":"

Bilal Coulibaly<\/a> is quickly proving why the Washington Wizards took a chance on him with the seventh overall pick in the 2023 draft<\/a>. After a challenging rookie season, the 6-foot-8 wing has surged into his sophomore year, now averaging<\/a> an impressive 18.8 points per game. Coulibaly\u2019s improved play has turned heads in Washington, where the Wizards have committed<\/a> to his long-term development. Despite a disappointing Olympic run, he\u2019s taken full advantage of his increased role in the 2024-25 season. His role on the Wizards is set to grow even more.<\/p>\n

NBA Business: Wizards Set to Make Bilal Coulibaly Decision<\/h2>\n

At just 20 years old, Coulibaly already shows remarkable growth, capitalizing on his natural athleticism and increased offensive opportunities. In response, the Wizards recently exercised his team option, securing him through 2026. This early season breakout is breathing new life into Washington\u2019s rebuild, particularly as they look to trade<\/a> veterans like Kyle Kuzma<\/a>. The Wizards\u2019 investment in Coulibaly appears to be paying off.<\/p>\n

A Dynamic Wing with Untapped Potential<\/h3>\n

Coulibaly\u2019s strengths align with the modern NBA. He\u2019s an ultra-athletic wing, with a remarkable 7-foot-3 wingspan<\/a>, excellent length, and solid ball-handling skills. His game has advanced since his rookie struggles, showing the development many fans had hoped for. He\u2019s capitalizing on his best attributes: spot-up threes and aggressive drives to the basket, which account for over 80%<\/a> of his scoring. Coulibaly\u2019s refined shot selection shows a player committed to his strengths and limiting weaknesses. His impressive shooting splits of 59.1% from the field, 42.1% from three, and 83.3% from the line underscore his efficiency.<\/p>\n

He\u2019s also shown a new level of confidence in his ball-handling. Although his handles remain a work in progress, Coulibaly avoids dribbling into traffic, taking shots quickly to maximize his efficiency. Over 60% of his shots come on fewer than two seconds and zero dribbles, a testament to his commitment to quicker decision-making. His ability to take and make shots at a high clip has been vital to the Wizards\u2019 strong start<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Rising Defensive Star<\/h3>\n

Coulibaly has also taken a leap on defense. With an elite defensive profile, he\u2019s consistently making plays with his quick hands, length, and lateral quickness. His recent performance against Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young<\/a> highlighted his defensive capabilities. Coulibaly held Young to only 14 points on 2-for-15 shooting and forced six turnovers. His potential as a 3-and-D wing<\/a> who can guard multiple positions is becoming increasingly evident. The Wizards now view him as a potential cornerstone in their rebuild, one who could anchor their defense for years to come.<\/p>\n

\n

Here is the final possession.<\/p>\n

Bilal Coulibaly was the primary defender on Trae Young all night and did an amazing job, forcing Young to miss his final 13 field goal attempts. pic.twitter.com\/dKT8Kcu7SA<\/a><\/p>\n

— Bijan Todd (@bijan_todd) October 29, 2024<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n