Another pre-draft process has passed, and the Wizards have their man. With the No. 9 overall selection in the 2019 NBA Draft, Washington selected Gonzaga forward Rui Hachimura on Thursday night in Brooklyn. In Hachimura, the Wizards found a versatile big man that they believe will be able to contribute at the NBA level immediately. They also made history, making Hachimura the first Japanese-born player to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.
“You know, it means a lot for me and my family,” said Hachimura. “Like Japan basketball. All my country. It's a big thing.