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Sophomore Season Focus Points for Bilal Coulibaly

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The seventh pick of the 2023 Draft was not welcomed with open arms by the Wizards fans at first.

But as the season went along, Bilal Coulibaly showed he belongs in this league. His rookie season was cut short by 19 games due to a wrist injury, but year two can be a big leap for Coulibaly. Here are some things that he can focus on for the season:

Defense:

Coulibaly was looked at as a defensive-minded player coming into the league.

That still holds. He made some great defensive plays last season, averaging close to a block and a steal. That is very impressive for a perimeter player, especially as a rookie. Coulibaly is now listed at 6’8 on the training camp roster, but he told a journalist on media day that is he now 6’9 in shoes. That extra growth can help him become more of a menace on the defensive end. Add that with the second overall pick/fellow Frenchman Alex Sarr, and they can make a real impact on defense.

Improving his offense:

Coulibaly showed some signs of his ability on the offensive end in his rookie campaign.

He is a decent playmaker off the dribble. His 3-pointer needs some work, but he shot right under 35% on just under three attempts per night. In his first preseason game, he knocked down two contested midrange jumpers off the dribble. This shows he’s getting more confidence in his jump shot. The midrange shot is an elite basketball move if a player can get it off the dribble, and Coulibaly hitting it consistently would take his game to the next level. 

Health:

Bilal missed the end of his rookie season with a wrist injury.

As his game develops more, his body will need to fill out, especially if he wants the responsibility of being a top-tier defender. The physicality of the league can take a toll on a slender-built player, and with Bilal apparently still growing, he will need to pack on the pounds. 

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Written by
Jarrett Spence

Jarrett Spence is a freelance sports journalist specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, with experience writing for platforms like FanSided and The Stop and Pop. Based in Washington, D.C., he covers the Washington Wizards and Mystics, delivering engaging stories, game analysis, and exclusive player insights. With a passion for storytelling and a strong social media presence.

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