After 11 seasons, John Wall has officially retired from the NBA. While he hasn’t played in Washington since the 2018-19 season, he’s still a legend among Wizards fans. In turn, it’s left the Washington Wizards with an ultimate decision. Should Wall’s number two be hung in the rafters of Capital One Arena?
Should Washington Retire John Wall’s Number?
Wall was drafted first overall in the 2010 draft and quickly became a fan favorite. He was a fast-paced highlight reel, and Washington let him lead the charge for them throughout the 2010s. Eventually, Wall would become a five-time All-Star, with All-NBA and All-Defensive team selections, and would even finish seventh in MVP voting in the 2016-17 season. In the midst of all that, Washington was a regular playoff squad, making the postseason in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018.
Wall appeared in 573 games throughout his Washington tenure. He averaged 19 points a game along with 9.2 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 steals. Wall will always be remembered for his time in Washington, dominating the league beside his co-star Bradley Beal. However, did Wall do enough to get his jersey retired by the Wizards?
His Case For The Rafters
An icon in the nation’s capital, Wall served as the Wizards’ leader for nine seasons, even when he wasn’t actively playing. Injuries derailed his career, which is unfortunate when you look at all Wall accomplished.
Wall may be in contention for the biggest “what-if” in NBA history. Not only was he the leader of the last great stretch of franchise history, but he was a remarkable person as well. It’s easier to mention what Wall didn’t do for the city of D.C. instead of listing everything he did do. This included setting up his foundation, the John Wall Family Foundation, which has helped disadvantaged families and individuals in the DMV area for years now.
His presence in the city and surrounding areas goes far beyond anything he did on the basketball court. He’ll not only be remembered for his basketball skills and dominant performances, but also for his charity work that has helped thousands of people along the way.
This conversation is more about a “when, not if” situation. Wall is arguably the best Wizards player ever, and he’s certainly not outside the top three. The only argument against his jersey retirement is the lack of team success; however, this is even a far-off situation. The Wizards haven’t seen much relevance since Wall’s departure, only making the playoffs once since he was traded. Additionally, Washington has only two finals appearances in franchise history, creating a scenario that Wall and Beal’s Wizards are arguably the best version of the team ever.
The Last Word
Wall certainly deserves his jersey in the rafters—not only for his on-court service, but his off-court demeanor and charity work. Wall poured as much love into the city as the city poured into him. His love for the city can still be seen today in interviews and podcasts. If the front office fails to do this, the entire organization will lose more than just part of the fanbase. So while Wall’s jersey may not be in the rafters next season, it shouldn’t be too long before the number two is flying above the court every night.
© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The post Should Washington Retire John Wall’s Number? appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.