The 2024 NBA Playoffs began with a number of former Kentucky Wildcats vying for a championship, but as the Finals prepare to begin, only P.J. Washington remains. The Dallas Mavericks forward is attempting to secure his first championship ring.
Washington spent two years with the Wildcats, from 2017 to 2019. In his last season in Lexington, he averaged 15 points and 7 rebounds per game. His play got him drafted 12th overall in the 2019 NBA draft.
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He was traded to the Dallas Mavericks early in 2024 to help them make a playoff run, and became a solid contributor. In his last few months of the regular season, he averaged 11.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.
In the Playoffs, he has been an important piece. In particular, against Oklahoma City in round two, he posted over 17 points per game and scored over 20 in three straight games.
The Mavericks will play the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals beginning Thursday night. The winner of the series will get to add their names to the list of championship winners. P.J. Washington is hoping to make the list of former Kentucky basketball players to win it one name longer.