Inside The Wizards

Wizards GM Praises Coach Brian Keefe

The Washington Wizards' general manager says he believes in head coach Brian Keefe ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Apr 6, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Washington Wizards head coach Brian Keefe during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Apr 6, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Washington Wizards head coach Brian Keefe during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images | Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

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The Washington Wizards are in the midst of a lengthy rebuild, and the team's general manager, Will Dawkins, believes that they have taken the right step forward.

The front office has assembled an exciting young roster, but just as important as building the team is finding the right head coach who can help elevate the players and guide the organization. Dawkins believes that head coach Brian Keefe is that guy.

During his introductory press conference for the 2025-26 season, Dawkins heaped high praise on Keefe, making it clear that he believes he is the right man for the job.

"I don't know if there's a better coach suited for the situation that we're in," Dawkins said.

He said he knows there will be hard times throughout the season, but he’s confident the players and staff will be able to bounce back.

Keefe is heading into his second full year as Wizards head coach. He was hired as an assistant coach in 2023 and eventually promoted to interim head coach a year later, following Wes Unseld Jr.'s transition into a front office role.

He has an overall 26-95 record throughout his tenure as the head coach oof the Wizards.

The results have yet to materialize fully in D.C. The Wizards finished last season with an 18-64 record, one of the worst teams in the league. Despite the poor record, there are still plenty to be excited about when it comes to the Wizards.

Heading into next season, several players are expected to take a step forward for the Wizards, alongside the developing core. The team has acquired several established veterans during the offseason, including C.J. McCollum, to provide guidance and support to the young core.

Washington Wizards guard CJ McCollum
Mar 23, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) drives to the basket against Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart (28) in the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images | Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

Keefe will play a massive part in their young core development, getting another full season as each of the head coach to guide the team growth throughout the season. It remains to be seen if they would be able to turn the corner next season

For now, Wizards fans will have to be patient and optimistic as the rebuild process continues.

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Elijah Hamilton
ELIJAH HAMILTON

Elijah graduated from Brooklyn College with a degree in Television, Radio, and Emerging Media. His work has appeared in Places like USA Today College Sports Wires, Fansided, The Sporting News, and Sports World News.