Wizards' Branham scores season-high 17 points in loss

Rookie guard's four 3-pointers also a season best in Friday's defeat to Lakers

Jan. 31, 2026 at 10:31am

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Malaki Branham, a rookie guard for the Washington Wizards, scored a team-high 17 points off the bench in Friday's 31-point loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Branham's 17 points were a season-high, and he also hit a season-best four 3-pointers in the game.

Why it matters

Branham, a first-round draft pick, has had an up-and-down rookie season so far, so his strong performance against the Lakers could be a sign that he is starting to find his footing in the NBA. The Wizards are in the midst of a rebuilding year, so strong individual performances from young players like Branham are important for the team's long-term outlook.

The details

Branham shot 6-of-9 from the field, including 4-of-6 from 3-point range, and added one free throw in 22 minutes of action. His 17 points were a season-high, and it was just the fourth time this year that he has scored at least 10 points in a game.

  • Branham's 17-point performance came in the Wizards' game against the Lakers on Friday, January 31, 2026.

The players

Malaki Branham

A rookie guard for the Washington Wizards who was a first-round draft pick in 2025.

Washington Wizards

An NBA team based in Washington, D.C. that is currently in a rebuilding phase.

Los Angeles Lakers

An NBA team based in Los Angeles, California that is one of the league's most successful franchises.

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The takeaway

Branham's strong performance against the Lakers could be a sign that the young guard is starting to find his footing in the NBA, which is important for the Wizards as they look to rebuild and develop their young talent.