Unlikely Duo Leads Wizards to Victory Over Pacers

Cooper and Williams Shine

Washington got relatively average play out of its starting five, leaning heavily on that group to build early momentum. However, as the game progressed, it became clear that the second unit was the more productive lineup, leaving head coach Brian Keefe with no choice but to close with that group.

Two guards who were heavily featured in that lineup were unlikely suspects, as Sharife Cooper and Alondes Williams thrived in the closing minutes of the game. Cooper has shown steady play when given the opportunity this year, but due to being on a two-way deal, his playing time has been far from consistent. Williams, on the other hand, was appearing in just his second game in a Wizards uniform, making the most of his 10-day contract.

Cooper finished the game with 18 points, three rebounds and five assists, once again showcasing his dynamic offensive skill set. The 24-year-old guard has proven more than capable of controlling the pace of the game, using his playmaking and shot creation to dissect opposing defenses and generate easy buckets.

Williams, meanwhile, had by far the best game of his young career, posting a career-high 25 points and 10 rebounds to go along with four assists. This matchup against the Pacers marked just day three of the 10-day deal he signed earlier in the week, and through his first two games, he has proven that he belongs at the NBA level.

His shot creation paired with a never-ending motor makes for a lethal combination that opposing teams are left scrambling to guard. Williams has received opportunities with other teams around the league in previous stints, but never to the extent he has with the Wizards, making this the first real opportunity he has gotten to truly prove himself — and prove himself he has.

More than likely, neither Cooper nor Williams will be around long term in Washington, as an already stacked Wizards guard room makes it difficult for extra minutes to be carved out beyond the core group moving forward. However, both young guards will likely be given ample opportunity to showcase their skill sets for the remainder of the season as Washington continues its tank, giving them the perfect chance to audition for the rest of the league.