Veteran Forward Anthony Gill Embodies the Soul of the Rebuilding Wizards

The 28-year-old undrafted player has outlasted every other member of the 2020-21 Wizards roster, becoming an invaluable locker room presence during Washington's rebuild.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:48pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with their form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.Anthony Gill's tireless work ethic and team-first mentality have made him an invaluable presence for the rebuilding Washington Wizards.University of Virginia Today

Anthony Gill, a 28-year-old forward for the Washington Wizards, has emerged as an invaluable veteran presence during the team's ongoing rebuild. Despite being an undrafted player, Gill has outlasted every other member of the 2020-21 Wizards roster, becoming known for his selfless leadership, defensive intensity, and ability to forge strong relationships with his teammates. While his on-court production may not jump off the stat sheet, Gill's off-court impact in cultivating a positive team culture has been widely praised by coaches and players alike.

Why it matters

In an era of constant roster turnover in the NBA, Gill's ability to stick with the Wizards organization through multiple coaching and front office changes is a testament to his character and value as a glue guy. As the Wizards continue their rebuild, Gill's steadying presence and commitment to developing relationships with younger players could prove crucial in helping the team establish a winning culture for the future.

The details

Gill, who went undrafted in 2016 before spending time in Europe, made his NBA debut with the Wizards in the 2020-21 season. Since then, he has outlasted numerous high-profile teammates, including Russell Westbrook, Khris Middleton, and Corey Kispert. Despite averaging just 5.2 points per game this season, Gill has carved out a role as a reliable defender and floor spacer, while also serving as a mentor to the team's younger players. His dedication to his craft and his teammates has not gone unnoticed, with rookie Tre Johnson praising Gill's off-court leadership and commitment to helping others.

  • Gill made his NBA debut with the Wizards in the 2020-21 season.
  • Since the 2020-21 season, Gill has outlasted numerous high-profile Wizards teammates.
  • This season, Gill has averaged 5.2 points per game while playing a key role as a defender and floor spacer.

The players

Anthony Gill

A 28-year-old forward for the Washington Wizards who has emerged as an invaluable veteran presence during the team's ongoing rebuild.

Tre Johnson

A rookie for the Washington Wizards who has praised Gill's off-court leadership and commitment to helping his teammates.

Corey Kispert

A former Wizards player who was traded to the Atlanta Hawks earlier this season, and who was a vocal supporter of Gill during their time together in Washington.

Brian Keefe

The head coach of the Washington Wizards, who has praised Gill's continued improvement as a player and his ability to always be ready to contribute.

Russell Westbrook

A former Wizards player who had a one-and-done impact with the team before they embraced a rebuilding process.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like AG helps more off the court than on the court. Nobody sees it, but AG's probably the best dressed in the morning to practice. Lives the farthest, gets the outfit prepared the night before. He wants to come to the gym first so he can do his workout and help with other guys. That's the type of person he is.”

— Tre Johnson, Wizards Rookie

“When you see a guy like that do well in a game, you want to run through a wall for him.”

— Corey Kispert, Former Wizards Player

“His game has improved since I've been here. Obviously, he had the scoring, but he had six assists also when we were playing through him on the elbows and we were getting some cuts off him. But this is what AG does. He always produces. He's always going to be ready to play, not surprisingly.”

— Brian Keefe, Wizards Head Coach

What’s next

The Wizards will have to decide whether to re-sign Gill to a new contract this offseason, as the veteran forward is set to become a free agent. His ability to contribute on the court and his invaluable presence in the locker room could make him a priority for the team as they continue their rebuild.

The takeaway

Anthony Gill's story with the Washington Wizards highlights the importance of having selfless, team-first players who can provide stability and leadership during times of organizational change and roster turnover. While his on-court production may not be flashy, Gill's commitment to developing relationships with his teammates and his willingness to do the little things have made him an invaluable asset for the Wizards as they work to build a winning culture for the future.