Wizards Defeat Bucks 128-116 in Season Opener as Star Duo Shines
Anthony Davis and Trae Young led Washington to a victory on Wednesday night despite rookie AJ Dybantsa missing the game with an ankle injury.
The Washington Wizards tipped off their new NBA season on Wednesday night with a 128-116 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at home. The matchup showcased the much-anticipated pairing of star players Trae Young and Anthony Davis playing together in a regular-season game for the first time since joining the franchise.
Washington secured the win by dominating the fourth quarter, outscoring Milwaukee 38-23 in the final twelve minutes. Eight different Wizards players scored at least eight points, contributing to a balanced team effort that impressed the coaching staff.
Anthony Davis had a historic performance in his Wizards debut, recording 34 points and 12 rebounds. Davis, who last played an NBA game in January before being acquired from the Dallas Mavericks, tied Antawn Jamison's 2004 franchise record for the most points scored in a Wizards debut.
Trae Young also orchestrated the offense effectively, finishing the night with 20 points and 13 assists while committing only one turnover. Young capitalized on drawing defensive attention, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates throughout the contest.
While the starting duo delivered, the Wizards achieved success through a strong supporting cast. Kyshawn George contributed 18 points, Bilal Coulibaly and Deandre Ayton each added 11 points, and Bub Carrington chipped in with 10 points to help fuel the victory.
The team played its season opener without rookie AJ Dybantsa. The No. 1 overall pick out of BYU missed the game due to a mild left ankle sprain sustained after landing awkwardly during a preseason contest last Friday against New Orleans.
Wizards coach Brian Keefe listed Dybantsa as day-to-day on the injury report. Although he missed the opening night matchup against the newly configured Bucks—who were led by Tyler Herro's 24 points—Dybantsa could potentially make his long-awaited NBA debut during the team's upcoming home game against the Toronto Raptors on Friday.
Coach Brian Keefe praised the collective effort after the final buzzer, stating that it was truly a team win with numerous players stepping up at different moments. The Wizards will look to carry that momentum forward as they navigate a busy early-season schedule.