Will Riley’s selection by the Washington Wizards in the 2025 NBA Draft did not attract significant attention initially, as other headlines dominated the narrative. The Wizards faced a challenging draft night, falling out of the top five picks and dealing with top prospect Ace Bailey’s efforts to join the team unsuccessfully. Additionally, Tre Johnson ultimately became the team’s highest draft pick, which pushed Riley’s first-round selection toward the back half and out of the spotlight.
Despite this, Riley had proven his potential during a strong freshman season at Illinois, averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game on efficient shooting splits, highlighted by 43% field goal accuracy and 32.5% from three-point range. His role as a sixth man showcased not only his scoring ability but also his advanced basketball IQ and capacity to lead an offense.
Early Signs of Promise in Washington
Upon joining the Wizards, the situation appeared ideal for Riley to showcase his skills fully. His rookie season started with encouraging performances in both the G-League affiliate Capital City Go-Go and during opportunities on Washington’s main roster. Head coach Brian Keefe’s growing interest in Riley’s potential was evident as the oversized guard consistently impressed with his versatility on both ends of the floor.
These initial flashes of ability hinted at a bright future, with Riley increasingly becoming a key figure in the Wizards’ building plans. His blend of size, skill, and smarts positioned him well to develop into a significant contributor.
February’s Breakout Run Shows Rising Stardom
Riley’s rise became unmistakable through February of the 2025-26 NBA season. In an expanded role, he increased his averages to 14.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting efficiently at 47.7% from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc. Additionally, Riley displayed defensive promise by averaging just under one steal per contest.
Comparing Riley to his rookie peers, his performance places him among the league’s most productive newcomers, making his recent surge even more impressive.
“Will Riley is 4th among rookies in scoring this February, only behind Flagg, Knueppel and Edgecombe. Riley’s Feb. numbers (10 G, 25.5 mpg):14.2 ppg47.7% FG / 38.5% 3PT (3.9 3PA/g)3.7 rpg / 2.4 apg / 0.9 spg” — Chase Hughes, Sports Analyst
This data underscores Riley’s ability to compete at a high level within a deep class of rookies, largely due to his maturity and skill set translating well to the professional game.
Future Outlook: A Promising Wizards Talent
Will Riley’s continued improvement demonstrates that he is emerging as one of the standout talents from the 2025 draft. As his role expands, so too does his confidence on the court. His existing skills suggest a strong foundation, and when all elements come together, a breakout season with the Wizards appears inevitable.
There is even speculation that Riley could experience a sophomore leap similar to the one exhibited by Washington’s rising star Kyshawn George. While only time will confirm this, Riley’s recent performances provide an encouraging glimpse of potential that Wizards fans will eagerly watch unfold in 2026 and beyond.
Will Riley is 4th among rookies in scoring this February, only behind Flagg, Knueppel and Edgecombe. Riley's Feb. numbers (10 G, 25.5 mpg):
14.2 ppg
47.7% FG / 38.5% 3PT (3.9 3PA/g)
3.7 rpg / 2.4 apg / 0.9 spg— Chase Hughes (@chasedcsports) February 26, 2026
