Wizards' Keefe Praises Trae Young's Passing Ahead of Debut

Head coach Brian Keefe highlights Young's playmaking ability as his 'best skill' before new guard's first game with Washington.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Washington Wizards head coach Brian Keefe expressed excitement about Trae Young's upcoming debut with the team, praising the guard's passing ability as his 'best skill.' Keefe, who previously coached against Young, noted that the new Wizards player 'gets other people better' through his court vision and playmaking. Young is set to make his debut for Washington in Thursday's game against the Utah Jazz.

Why it matters

The Wizards are hoping Young's arrival can help boost their offense and complement rising young star Bilal Coulibaly, who has been a bright spot for the team this season. Keefe's comments suggest the coaching staff believes Young's elite passing will be a key asset in integrating him into the lineup.

The details

Keefe, who has coached against Young in the past with the Lakers, Thunder, and Nets, said the guard's 'best skill has always been his passing,' in addition to his scoring ability and free throw drawing. The Wizards are eager to see how Young's playmaking can elevate the rest of the roster, especially the 23-year-old Coulibaly, who has been enjoying an improved offensive season.

  • Trae Young will make his Wizards debut on Thursday, March 6, 2026 against the Utah Jazz.
  • Bilal Coulibaly scored a season-high 23 points in the Wizards' 123-118 loss to the Rockets on March 3, 2026.

The players

Brian Keefe

The head coach of the Washington Wizards, who previously coached against Trae Young as an assistant with the Lakers, Thunder, and Nets.

Trae Young

The newly acquired guard for the Washington Wizards, known for his elite passing and playmaking abilities.

Bilal Coulibaly

A third-year guard for the Washington Wizards who has been a bright spot this season, averaging 10.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This guy gets other people better. We see his own scoring ability, his own ability to draw free throws, ability to get in the paint. I think his best skill has always been his passing.”

— Brian Keefe, Head Coach, Washington Wizards (Locked on Wizards)

“Just getting more reps, being out there more. Finding my rhythm, and yeah, just my work.”

— Bilal Coulibaly, Guard, Washington Wizards (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Wizards and their fans will be eager to see how Trae Young's passing and playmaking ability integrates with the rest of the roster, especially young star Bilal Coulibaly, when Young makes his debut on Thursday against the Jazz.

The takeaway

The Wizards are banking on Trae Young's elite passing skills to elevate their offense and complement the scoring of Bilal Coulibaly, as the team looks to build around their young core and integrate their new star acquisition.