The Wizards of the Capital: The Five Greatest in Washington History

The Wizards of the Capital: The Five Greatest in Washington History

The feeling towards capital teams in the world of sports is always about them having to dominate. Not so in American professional sports. Washington Wizards basketball is a good enough proof of that. The organization began its journey from Chicago back in 1961. It briefly passed through Baltimore, and the journey east reached the capital in 1973. Anyway, in all these years, the stable won only one title, and that was in the already long-ago 78. However, some of the best basketball players in the history of the sport have passed through Washington. Here are the top 5 contributors to the team's history.

5. Gilbert Arenas

In the very beginning of the 21st century, Gilbert played for the Golden State Warriors before it was fashionable. After just two seasons, he found himself in Washington and clearly made the right decision. As a "Wizard" he participated in three All-Star Games out of a total of 8 opportunities. In the 05/06 season, he averaged 29.3 points per game. Basketball player with influence under the basket, but also a very stable shooting for 3. A serious injury at the peak of his career practically does not allow him greater longevity among the strongest in the league.

4. Bradley Beal

For many years, the NBA world has been waiting for the big miracle from the duo of Bradley Beal and John Wall. In the end, the latter left Washington, and the former has been part of the team for 10 seasons now. Already in his debut season, he made a positive impression and fell into the ideal team of rookies in the NBA. His real peak was in 2018. He made it to two consecutive All-Star Games, and was suspended for the third by Covid-19. In any case, it will be realized in 2021. Very soon, residents of Sofia expect the guard to become the most productive basketball player in the history of the Wizards.

3. John Wall

Perhaps one of the reasons Washington hasn't achieved something bigger in the NBA with Beal and Wall is that the primes of their careers have passed. When Bradley began making appearances in the All-Star Game, John made his final and 5th consecutive All-Star appearance. Washington took the guard with the No. 1 pick in the 2010 draft. For the next 10 years, he was the team's favorite. Leader in franchise history in assists and steals, and 4th in scoring. Arguably the best point guard in the organization.

2. Elvin Hayes

As John Wall left Washington for Houston, so did Hayes. But Elvin started his career right from the Rockets. Still, in 9 years, he left a huge mark on the organization. Consecutively in Baltimore and Washington. During this period, he participated in 8 All-Star Games, and as part of Houston, there are 4 more. Definitely a career of a representative of the Hall of Fame. Champion in '78 with Washington and one of the best power forwards in history.

1. Wes Unseld

When talking about the greatest basketball player in Washington history, it's hard to name another. Why? Because he's been the Finals MVP since 1978. He's also the regular season MVP in '69. The center has 13 seasons for the organization…do you need more? No one else in Washington history has these two awards. This one for regular season MVP comes in his debut season. Only two people have done that in NBA history… Naturally, Unseld is inducted into the Hall of Fame!

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