Exclusive: Bub Carrington’s heartfelt understanding of Wizards fan loyalty

In an exclusive interview with ClutchPoints during the event, the 2025 All-Rookie honoree admitted that he’s flattered by the fanfare.

“It shows me how enthusiastic they are,” he said. “Like, they’re asking basketball questions…It makes you more aware of how they appreciate you, to be honest. [And it’s a reminder of] how everything you do, everyone sees it.”

That last part shows why these types of events are important for young players like Carrington. The microscope on the 6-foot-4, 190-pounder is about to increase, as he must prove that he’s worthy of being on competitive Wizards teams moving forward. So far, he’s only played in seasons in which the organization sacrificed winning to develop its young players and maximize odds in the NBA Draft Lottery, which is partially why he’s averaged 28.8 minutes per game in his career thus far.

Carrington having awareness of that microscope means that he understands the stakes. The two-time Rising Star’s on-court success will not only determine his future, but it’ll influence Washington fans’ moods as well.

Every sports franchise relies on the loyalty of its fanbase, and the Wizards are lucky to still have fans lining up to see their players at offseason events. They haven’t made a conference finals appearance since 1979, haven’t made the playoffs since 2021, and have gone 50-196 since team president Michael Winger and general manager Will Dawkins took over in 2023. However, their supporters still believe in them, evidenced by instances like people telling Carrington, “I skipped my math test to see you,” and “I love watching you guys play” on Friday.

For now, Washington entrusts the 2024 ACC All-Rookie honoree to help maintain that enthusiasm on and off the court.

“I’m pretty seasoned [with off-court fan events],” he said. “The Wizards allow me to do a lot of things like this. It’s nice to see fans being fans outside of the arena. They actually want to meet you and keep up with your life. It’s pretty nice that you can be an attraction.”

Bub Carrington’s connection with fans is deeper than basketball

While a basketball player signing autographs might not look like a world-changing event on the surface, Carrington understands the meaning behind it.

“You know, there was someone I looked up to when I was growing up. And without that person, I probably wouldn’t be where I am right now,” he said. “When people show me that I can be that for someone else, you know, that’s a lot. That’s another person trying to accomplish their dreams…I’m kind of a soft guy, I want a better world.”

Carrington does his part to improve society, such as when he hosts youth basketball camps and mental health clinics in Baltimore.

“[Fans] should stay tuned for my basketball camp, my second one this year,” he said. “More details on that soon.”

Dawkins told ClutchPoints in April 2025 that the Wizards look at “people first” when adding young players, and Carrington is evidence of that. He’s been a model of availability and honorable character, as he’s played in all 164 games over his two seasons and has never gotten in trouble. He is also a two-time recipient of the Dr. E.B. Henderson Award, a Wizards team award recognizing players for exceptional community work.

If Carrington proves himself as a reliable bench piece moving forward, Washington fans may get to see him at more events like Friday’s for years to come. For now, they must wait until June 23 to find out who the Wizards will draft No. 1 overall as the franchise aims to finally give them a product they deserve.