The Evolution of the Former Seventh Overall Pick: From France to the NBA Spotlight

From the playgrounds of Courbevoie, France, to the bright lights of the NBA, Bilal Coulibaly’s journey has been defined by rapid growth, a relentless work ethic, and a knack for defying expectations. Once a raw prospect known more for athletic flashes than refined polish, Coulibaly has steadily transformed into a well-rounded, two-way player commanding attention on basketball’s biggest stage. His story isn’t just about crossing continents, it’s about mastering every step of the climb. From French youth leagues to guarding elite scorers in the NBA.

Coulibaly began his basketball journey at the age of ten with the Courbevoie Sport Basket, though the sport wasn’t his first choice. His dream was to play soccer, but when his local team didn’t have a spot for him, he turned to basketball instead. During the COVID lockdowns, when he was just 15 to 16 years old, Coulibaly experienced a remarkable growth spurt, shooting up from five-foot-six to six-foot-three. That physical leap matched his rapid development on the court. After the pandemic, during his U21 days, he posted impressive averages of 21.9 points per game, along with a couple of steals and nearly two blocks. Riding that momentum, Coulibaly continued to elevate his game and eventually teamed up with another future NBA star, Victor Wembanyama.

During his time alongside Wembanyama, NBA scouts, originally in the stands to evaluate Victor, got a close look at Coulibaly as well. It was the perfect chance for him to showcase his athleticism, defensive instincts, and raw but intriguing game. Many scouts were impressed, and as a result, Bilal was selected seventh overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, then traded to the Washington Wizards. During his rookie season, flashes of something special were already apparent. While his offensive game was still incomplete, lacking a consistent jumpshot, touch around the rim, and advanced ball-handling, his defense stood out immediately.

Nicknamed “Bilalcatraz,” he was tasked with guarding the toughest assignments from the very first game of his career. The Wizards’ coaching staff trusted him to take on the opponent’s best offensive player night in and night out, and he didn’t disappoint. In his second season, Coulibaly showed immense growth, improving in nearly every major statistical category. With a sharper jumpshot, tighter ball-handling, and better playmaking, he began to emerge not just as a defensive stopper but as a legitimate two-way threat. His defense improved as well. With strong performances against the Hawks, holding Trae Young to two of 15 shooting and two for 10 from three with six turnovers, he showed how even the best scorers in the NBA don’t stand a chance when he gets them on his island.

Still, there’s plenty of room for growth. Early in the season, Coulibaly teased a massive leap, averaging over 19 points per game in the opening stretch. Yet, as the year went on, those breakout performances became less frequent. One of his biggest challenges is maintaining an aggressive scoring mindset. Too often, he passes up shots, and when he does pull the trigger, the looks aren’t always ideal. His shooting efficiency dipped even as his shot volume rose sharply. Even so, the promise is undeniable. Surrounded by a young core that includes Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, and Alex Sarr, Coulibaly is part of a roster brimming with talent and upside. If this group continues to grow together, Washington’s future could be as exciting as it’s been in years.