Kyle Kuzma’s standout 32-point performance propelled the Washington Wizards to a narrow 118-117 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers during Thursday night’s NBA action, marking the Wizards’ fifth win of the season. The Wizards, now with a 5-22 record, displayed resilience in a closely contested game.
Tyus Jones contributed 16 points, while Daniel Gafford added 14 points and eight rebounds. Jordan Poole and Deni Avdija each scored 11 points, playing crucial roles in the team’s victory.
Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. praised the team’s mental and physical strength, acknowledging the importance of securing a win regardless of the circumstances.
“We showed a little bit of mental and physical fortitude to make enough plays to win the game,” Unseld said. “It’s great to come away from a win, regardless of how you get it.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
The Trail Blazers, led by Anfernee Simons with 41 points, including 22 in a dynamic fourth quarter, fell short despite a late rally. Deandre Ayton’s double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds and Jerami Grant’s 20 points were not enough to secure a win for Portland, which now stands at 7-20.
Washington set the tone early with an 8-0 run, capitalizing on Portland’s initial turnovers. The Trail Blazers’ overall 15 turnovers resulted in 21 points for Washington, a factor highlighted by Portland coach Chauncey Billups.
“The first half, we came out terrible,” Billups said. “We talked about it all day, we tried to prepare the guys for it, knowing the pace they play is difficult. They get up and down and run.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Despite trailing by 18 in the second half, Portland, driven by Simons’ performance, tied the game. However, Washington regained the lead, and Portland missed a final opportunity to win with Grant’s driving layup at the buzzer after a successful challenge on a foul call.
Both teams will face the Golden State Warriors on the road in their next game, but the Wizards do so on Friday, while the Trail Blazers are scheduled to face them on Saturday night.
