Bilal Coulibaly is quickly proving why the Washington Wizards took a chance on him with the seventh overall pick in the 2023 draft. After a challenging rookie season, the 6-foot-8 wing has surged into his sophomore year, now averaging an impressive 18.8 points per game. Coulibaly’s improved play has turned heads in Washington, where the Wizards have committed to his long-term development. Despite a disappointing Olympic run, he’s taken full advantage of his increased role in the 2024-25 season. His role on the Wizards is set to grow even more.
NBA Business: Wizards Set to Make Bilal Coulibaly Decision
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’s rebuild, particularly as they look to trade veterans like Kyle Kuzma. The Wizards’ investment in Coulibaly appears to be paying off.
A Dynamic Wing with Untapped Potential
Coulibaly’s strengths align with the modern NBA. He’s an ultra-athletic wing, with a remarkable 7-foot-3 wingspan, excellent length, and solid ball-handling skills. His game has advanced since his rookie struggles, showing the development many fans had hoped for. He’s capitalizing on his best attributes: spot-up threes and aggressive drives to the basket, which account for over 80% of his scoring. Coulibaly’s 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.
He’s 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’ strong start.
Rising Defensive Star
Coulibaly has also taken a leap on defense. With an elite defensive profile, he’s consistently making plays with his quick hands, length, and lateral quickness. His recent performance against Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young 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 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.
Here is the final possession.
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
— Bijan Todd (@bijan_todd) October 29, 2024
Coulibaly’s defensive growth reflects his understanding of team defense as well. He excels in the passing lanes, blocks shots, and offers help defense, using his wingspan to cover extensive ground. This versatility could make him a unique defensive weapon capable of guarding positions one through four.
The Wizards’ Commitment to Coulibaly
The Wizards’ decision to exercise Coulibaly’s third-year team option (a cap hit of $7.25m for the 2025-26 season) underscores their faith in him. He’s locked into his rookie-scale deal until 2027, which is a huge asset for the team. With Kuzma linked to trade rumors, Coulibaly’s contract will be invaluable if the Wizards aim to acquire a star player or amass more draft capital. Having a high-potential wing on a manageable contract benefits the Wizards’ long-term financial flexibility, especially as they navigate the NBA’s strict second-apron rules.
This investment is a departure from Washington’s past struggles with young talent. After the Wizards’ previous lottery picks struggled, Coulibaly’s improvement is a breath of fresh air. The Wizards, now in the second year of their rebuild, aim to acquire top talent in the 2025 draft and focus on youth development. Coulibaly’s leap suggests that Washington’s front office is making smart moves, with General Manager Will Dawkins leading a more strategic approach.
Looking Ahead: An Important Season for Bilal Coulibaly and the Wizards
This season will be critical for both Coulibaly and the Wizards. If Coulibaly maintains his strong start, he could solidify himself as a primary offensive option for Washington. His recent career-high 27-point performance against the Hawks, where he shot 11-of-14 from the field and grabbed nine boards, showed his potential to take over games. It’s a stark contrast to his rookie season and disappointing Olympic stint, where he saw minimal minutes. His growth, however, hasn’t been linear, and there will still be challenges ahead as he adjusts to the responsibilities of an NBA starter. Teams will begin to draw up complex game plans to stop him. It remains to be seen how he will respond to that additional attention.
As he develops, Coulibaly’s strengths—athleticism, efficient shooting, and defensive versatility—position him well in the Wizards’ long-term plans. Should his progress continue, he will be a valuable building block for Washington. Coulibaly’s upcoming restricted free agency in 2027 will be a decision point for the Wizards. If his trajectory continues, the Wizards may look to extend him sooner (the deadline for that decision is 31st of October, 2025).
The Wizards’ 2-2 start to the season hints that, with young talent like Coulibaly, their rebuild could accelerate. Washington now has an emerging talent with the potential to attract other stars or provide the stability needed for success. If Coulibaly stays on track, he could fast-track the Wizards’ path back to contention.
A Key Decision for the Wizards
The Wizards’ decision to secure Bilal Coulibaly in year three shows they are fully invested in his potential. However, they are set to show more commitment to him on the court, trusting him more as a go-to scorer. The Wizards are set to make a decision to make him a core development project beside Alex Sarr and Jordan Poole.
Coulibaly’s transformation from a rookie struggling to find his place to a valuable two-way wing is remarkable. His athleticism, length, and commitment to improvement make him a key piece in Washington’s plans. If he continues to improve, Coulibaly could become the cornerstone of a brighter future for the Wizards, propelling them forward in a rapidly changing NBA landscape.
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