In a match of only relative interest given the monstrous beating inflicted by the Wizards on the Taipans of Cairn (Australia), Bilal Coulibaly was nevertheless able to enjoy extended playing time and show some nice things on the field. What impresses? His already very intense defense, which allowed him to scratch several balls and finish second best evaluation of the match, behind Kyle Kuzma (22 points).
Match statistics here!
A fairly discreet match offensively (5 points) but very interesting defensively. This should fully satisfy Bilal Coulibaly for his first pre-season in the Wizards jersey. His wingspan of 219 centimeters coupled with impressive mobility and all-terrain pressure has already proven his effectiveness in the sequences in which he came into play. His first basket also came from a scratched ball after all-terrain defensive work on his opponent.
Bilal Coulibaly plays both ends!
The Wizards rookie gets on the board in his #NBAPreseason debut. pic.twitter.com/ysdJU2JJtR
— NBA (@NBA) October 10, 2023
We add six rebounds to these three interceptions, and in the end we obtain a nice little defensive match, symbol of what he will primarily bring to the Wizards the coming season: energy, undoubtedly a little disgust for the opponents who will piss off a little more than usual when it comes to raising the ball. On the offensive level, the Frenchman selected in 7th position in the 2023 Draft therefore stood out less, but still finished with 5 points and 3 assists.
We admit it: he also deliberately kept himself discreet, because given the adversity of the day… let’s say that there was a way to eat a little more and have fun. Teamwork above all, the shots were left to a Kyle Kuzma already in good shape (22 points) and a Jordan Poole already hot at 3-points (18 points, 4/8 from distance). Victory for the Wizards 145-82, but we’re pretty upset about the score. The important thing is elsewhere: Coulibaly finished second best evaluation (+29) of the match behind Kyle Kuzma (+30). If that’s not an encouraging symbol… and it makes us want to see more already!
Next meeting ? Friday morning, at 1 a.m. against the Hornets!
Source : NBA
2023-10-11 01:46:00
#Great #Bilal #Coulibaly #Wizards #preseason
