French Wizards Continue Dominance in EuroBasket

Alex Sarr

Sarr’s French campaign to this point has been decent, averaging just under 20 minutes a game with 9.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and half an assist over the two games. He’s shot 72.7% from the field, which is far above his rookie season average of 39.4%. Additionally, he hasn’t missed a single shot inside the three-point line over the stretch.

In France’s latest contest against Slovenia, Sarr scored 12 points and added five rebounds, one steal, and 2 blocks in the 103-95 victory. Sarr’s role has been up and down, playing solid minutes in France’s tune-up games, and then dipping in the game against Belgium. He should see an increased role once the quarterfinals begin.

Sarr had an average rookie year, but this summer, he’s looked unstoppable. The hope should be that Sarr can push this stretch to the start of the season. If he can, the Wizards could use his boost in play as a reason to bring in some real talent in next summer’s free agency. Sarr may not be Washington’s face of the franchise for the future, but he could be an x-factor for them in the long run.

Bilal Coulibaly

Coulibaly has some real pressure on him heading into this season. However, he seems to be thriving under the thought of a possible position battle with George. Across his two EuroBasket games, Coulibaly has averaged around 23 minutes a game, with 12.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and half an assist with a steal and a block a game. One of Coulibaly’s biggest problems is efficiency, but he’s looked spectacular from the field at 52.6%.

Coulibaly was the second-leading scorer against Slovenia with 13 points, which came on 62.5% shooting from the field and 50% from three. He added four rebounds, one assist, and a steal. Coulibaly has been a completely different player on the offensive end for France, and has continued to show why he’s one of the better defensive wings in the NBA. His role, while already big, could see another jump as the quarterfinals grow closer.

This summer is a massive one for Coulibaly, as he could thrive or dry up as the pressure mounts. If he thrives, he could lock up his role as a future cornerstone of the franchise. On the other hand, if he dries, he could easily find himself in a new city as soon as the upcoming trade deadline. He controls his own destiny at this moment.

The Last Word

Sarr and Coulibaly, along with George and Vukčević, have helped their nations compete and thrive at the highest level. This summer was crucial for Washington, and so far, they’ve done quite well. If it continues, the Wizards could see themselves competing sooner rather than later.