Washington Wizards Introduce New Head Coach Wes Unseld Jr.

The Washington Wizards have replaced outgoing head coach Scott Brooks, hiring Wes Unseld Jr., who has spent the last six years as an assistant with the Denver Nuggets. 

OFFICIAL: We've named Wes Unseld Jr. the 25th head coach in franchise history.

Welcome home, Coach! #DCAboveAll

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) July 17, 2021

The Unseld name is intertwined with the success and lore of the Washington franchise, as Wes Unseld Sr. is arguably the team's all-time most important a beloved player. He was named NBA MVP and Rookie of the Year in 1968-69, and Finals MVP in 1977-78 - leading the franchise to their only championship. Following his thirteen year playing career, he coached the team for seven seasons before going into the front office as general manager for another seven years.   

Wes Unseld Jr. in his opening remarks during his introductory press conference: "I know my dad is up there smiling down. He’s probably chuckling…I know he’s extremely proud."

— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) July 19, 2021

Wes Unseld, Jr., earned his opportunity through more than a decade’s work as a pro scout and assistant coach, most recently in Denver. But there’s no question he’s a sentimental favorite for many in the organization as well, given the continued love & respect for his late father.

— David Aldridge (@davidaldridgedc) July 16, 2021

The hiring of Unseld Jr. also marks a significant shift in the NBA head coaching landscape, as seven black coaches have been hired this offseason. 

Wes Unseld Jr. will be the seventh Black head coach hired out of eight openings this offseason in the NBA 👏

(via @TheUndefeated) pic.twitter.com/iVNAwYrSYe

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 17, 2021

Unseld Jr. has been one of the more vocal individuals within the NBA about the lack of black head coaches, saying the following: 

You look at the dichotomy between players, coaches and front office ownership representation. The percentages don’t match. The NBA is by far more forward thinking, more proactive and more diverse and inclusive than the other sports leagues. But I think it still has a ways to go.

Unseld Jr.'s contract has been reported as a four-year deal, with no financials disclosed as of yet. 

Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports