In a league that is always looking for ways to expand and portray more talent, the Developmental League or G-League, formerly known as the D-League, has provided the NBA with the foundation to do just that. 26 NBA franchises have a G-League affiliate and that number only continues to rise as the Washington Wizards have also joined the movement and will purchase a G-League team for the 2018-19 season. Following from an official press release by the G-League:
The Washington Wizards and the NBA G League announced today that the Wizards have acquired the right to own and operate an NBA G League team. The team, which will debut in the 2018-19 season, is scheduled to play at the Wizards’ new facility in Ward 8 in Washington, D.C…
“I’m thrilled to welcome the Washington Wizards to the NBA G League family,” said NBA G League President Malcolm Turner. “We’re looking forward to working closely with the Monumental Sports & Entertainment team to introduce the exciting brand of NBA G League basketball to the D.C. market as our record 27th team prepares to play in the 2018-19 season.”
“The NBA G League has been a great resource for us over the years, both for calling up talent and for allowing young players on our roster to gain more on-court experience,” said Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld. “Having our own team, selecting the front office and coaching staff and being able to implement our system will allow us to further enhance our player and staff development program moving forward.”
As stated Washington will be the 27th franchise to have a G-League affiliate and the move can only be beneficiary for the Wizards’ development. Having a G-League team nearby where the Wiz operate will be a plus for adding talent to their roster if needed as they try to build on a solid 2016-17 campaign.
