Wizards Open Season With Hopeful Win After Rebuild
Washington Wizards fans celebrated an opening-night victory over Milwaukee after three losing seasons. The team’s new era features Anthony Davis and Trae Young in its lineup.
Washington’s 128–116 opening-night victory against Milwaukee came after a three-season stretch in which the franchise lost 196 games and closed 2025-26 with a 1–26 run. The Bucks, meanwhile, had traded Giannis Antetokounmpo in June and were projected near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
Anthony Davis, playing for the first time in nine months, scored 34 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Trae Young added 20 points and 13 assists. No. 1 draft pick AJ Dybantsa has not yet debuted because of a preseason ankle sprain.
A strong start may lift Washington fans and local sports businesses by renewing interest after several losing seasons. The presence of established stars could draw casual viewers and younger fans, while a competitive team may create shared civic excitement. Still, one opening win cannot confirm a turnaround; attendance, merchandise sales and community engagement could rise only if performance holds.