As the Washington Wizards embark on the second year of their rebuilding process, they remain laser-focused on nurturing young talent and maximizing their draft potential. With veterans like Malcolm Brogdon potentially on the trading block, the Wizards are aiming for a top pick in the 2025 draft, including the highly coveted Cooper Flagg. However, the early returns on their recent draft picks may already be raising red flags among fans.
Alex Sarr, the second overall pick, delivered a disappointing showing in the summer league, highlighted by a game where he went 0-for-15 from the field. His struggles have cast a shadow over what was expected to be a promising start. Coulibaly, another key lottery selection, fared well in Vegas but has since become the second high-draft pick to underperform.
The Wizards made a bold move in the 2023 draft, trading up to select Bilal Coulibaly with the seventh overall pick. While he logged significant minutes as a rookie, his performance was underwhelming. The team had high hopes for a sophomore surge, making his lackluster showing for France at the 2024 Olympics all the more disappointing.
Coulibaly’s Olympic Struggles a Cause for Concern
Coulibaly, standing 6’6″, represented the French Senior National Team for the first time at the Olympics. Although he previously played in the U18 European Championships in 2022, this was a significant step up in competition.
France entered the Olympics with a strong frontcourt led by Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert, but their backcourt and wing positions were less certain. Despite early struggles in exhibition games, France hit their stride during the tournament, winning two of their three group-stage matches and making a surprising run to the gold medal game.
However, Coulibaly played a minimal role throughout the competition. Over five appearances, he averaged just 2.4 points, 1.4 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and 0.4 blocks in 11.4 minutes per game, logging the second-lowest minutes on the team. Only Nando de Colo, who played sparingly, saw less court time.
France turned to Isaia Cordinier, Frank Ntilikina, and Andrew Albicy over Coulibaly in crucial moments. The fact that the Wizards’ top-ten pick was sidelined in favor of non-NBA players is concerning, especially allowing Coulibaly to make a mark on the international stage.
As the Wizards prioritize development this season, Bilal Coulibaly is expected to see significant playing time. However, after posting one of the lowest value over replacement player (VORP) ratings in the NBA as a rookie, the 20-year-old must significantly improve. The pressure is on for Coulibaly to prove he can be a cornerstone for Washington’s future.
The 2024-25 season is pivotal for Coulibaly. With three new first-round picks added to the roster, the Wizards are in the process of shaping their core. While his Olympic performance was far from ideal, development is often gradual. The opportunities will be there for Coulibaly—now it’s up to him to capitalize on them.
