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Wizards, Coulibaly don’t reach rookie-scale extension

The Washington Wizards missed their chance to lock in Bilal Coulibaly to a rookie-scale contract extension before the October 8 deadline, forcing the 22-year-old wing into restricted free agency this summer. Coulibaly, selected seventh overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by new head coach Will Dawkins—who traded up to secure him—has quickly become a defensive anchor for the Wizards, averaging 11.7 points and 4.3 rebounds last season while ranking in the 90th percentile or higher for steals, blocks, and deflections among guards.

His 86.5-inch wingspan, among the longest in the league, allows him to disrupt passing lanes and guard elite opponents, including holding Giannis Antetokounmpo to just 13 points in two matchups last year. Despite his defensive impact and offensive versatility—highlighted by his ability to pressure the rim and rebound—Coulibaly’s contract talks stalled, leaving his future with Washington uncertain as the team prepares for the 2026-27 season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks at Capital One Arena.

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