In a significant performance, Bilal Coulibaly led the Washington Wizards to a 124-114 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, scoring 26 points. Coulibaly's successful three-point shooting (3 for 5) forced Hornets Coach Charles Lee to adjust his defensive strategy mid-game. The Wizards' explosive first half, marked by scoring 77 points, illustrated their offensive prowess. Despite a less effective second half, the win marked the Wizards' first two-game winning streak this season, highlighting Coulibaly's development and pivotal role in the team's success.
I knew it was happening. In the morning we talked about it, too. [Coach Brian Keefe] made some plays ... to make it easier. I don't take [the strategy] as a disrespect or something, I just think that's part of the game.
The Wizards scored 77 points in the first 24 minutes - their most through the first two quarters in two years, according to the team - and led by 23.
Coulibaly shot 3 for 5 from deep and scored 18 points in the first half, forcing Lee to largely abandon his strategy starting late in the second quarter.
The Wizards' lead dwindled to as little as five in a second half where they shot just 36.2 percent from the field and 18.2 percent from three.
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