The Washington Wizards have made the decision to waive Australian player Xavier Cooks just one day before the start of the new NBA season. The team announced their 18-man roster for their first game against the Indiana Pacers on Thursday (AEDT), which did not include Cooks.
Cooks, a versatile swingman, had signed a four-year contract with the Wizards earlier this year, marking his first stint in the NBA. He joined the team shortly after leading the Sydney Kings to the NBL title and being named the league’s Most Valuable Player.
During his time with the Wizards, Cooks averaged 3.8 points and 3.8 rebounds in 12.6 minutes of game time. Coach Wes Unseld Jr. began giving him more playing time towards the end of the season when it became clear that the team would not make the playoffs. Cooks ended the season with a total of 10 appearances.
It is unclear why the Wizards made the decision to waive Cooks. It could be a strategic move to make room for another player on the roster or a decision based on Cooks’ performance during training camp and preseason games.
Regardless of the reason, this move is a setback for Cooks, who was hoping to make an impact in the NBA after a successful season in the NBL. The 26-year-old Australian had worked hard to earn a spot on an NBA roster and prove himself on the highest level of basketball.
Now, Cooks will have to explore his options and potentially look for opportunities elsewhere. He may try to secure a spot in the G League, the NBA’s official minor league, to continue developing his skills and catch the attention of NBA teams in need of additional talent.
Despite being waived by the Wizards, Cooks should not be discouraged. Many players have faced similar setbacks early in their careers but have gone on to have successful NBA careers. It will be important for Cooks to stay focused and continue working hard to prove himself and his abilities.
In the meantime, the Washington Wizards will move forward with their roster for the upcoming season. They will face the Indiana Pacers in their first game, and the team will have to find a way to fill the void left by Cooks’ departure. It will be interesting to see how the team adjusts and if they will make any further roster moves in the near future.
Overall, the decision to waive Xavier Cooks by the Washington Wizards comes as a surprise and disappointment for the Australian player. However, it is not the end of his NBA journey, and Cooks will have to persevere and continue working towards his dream of becoming a successful NBA player.
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