Ryan Rollins Emerges as NBA's Most Underrated Star

Former Wizards player shines with Bucks after early career struggles

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Ryan Rollins, a second-round draft pick in 2022, has blossomed into one of the NBA's most effective backcourt players with the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite a brief and troubled stint with the Washington Wizards where he was waived after just 10 games, Rollins has found stability in Milwaukee and is now recognized as the league's most underrated star according to Bleacher Report.

Why it matters

Rollins' rise highlights the Wizards' missed opportunities with the young player, as they released him early in his career. His success with the Bucks raises questions about Washington's player development and roster decisions, especially as the team has made high-profile trades to acquire stars like Trae Young and Anthony Davis.

The details

Originally from Toledo, Rollins, now 23 years old, is averaging 17.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game for the Bucks, shooting 47% from the field and 41.8% from three-point range. His consistent play and efficient scoring have made him a vital contributor, though his impact has often been overlooked by the wider league audience.

  • Rollins was waived by the Wizards after just 10 games in 2022.
  • Rollins has emerged as a key player for the Bucks over the past four NBA seasons.

The players

Ryan Rollins

A 23-year-old point guard who has blossomed into one of the NBA's most effective backcourt players with the Milwaukee Bucks after a brief and troubled stint with the Washington Wizards.

Washington Wizards

An NBA team that released Rollins early in his career, a decision that is now being highlighted as a missed opportunity as Rollins has emerged as a star with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Milwaukee Bucks

The NBA team that has provided Rollins with stability and allowed him to develop into a vital contributor, showcasing his potential as one of the league's most underrated players.

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What they’re saying

“NBA fans outside of Milwaukee or Toledo may not be very familiar with Ryan Rollins, but the former MAC star turned starting point guard for the Bucks will make sure you know his name soon.”

— Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

“A second-round pick in 2022 who's been traded, waived and played on a two-way contract, Rollins has become Milwaukee's third-leading scorer and one of the best three-point shooters in the NBA.”

— Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

Rollins' continued development and performance with the Bucks will be closely watched, as his success highlights the Wizards' past decisions and raises questions about the team's future backcourt composition.

The takeaway

Rollins' rise from a second-round pick who was waived by the Wizards to a key contributor for the Bucks underscores the unpredictable nature of player development and the value of giving overlooked players opportunities to thrive. His story serves as a benchmark for other players striving to redefine their careers and make an impact in the NBA.