A journey through time and space
The Washington Wizards have entered their 65th NBA season, a milestone that reflects decades of transformation, struggle and resilience. The team began its journey in 1961 as the Chicago Packers, the NBA’s first expansion team. A year later, the team was renamed the Chicago Zephyrs, and in 1963 they moved to Maryland and were renamed the Baltimore Bullets.
In 1973, the team spent one season as the Capitol Bullets before settling on the name Washington Bullets. This identity lasted until 1997, when the team was officially renamed the Washington Wizards. More than sixty years later, the team continues to pursue the consistency that defined its best era.
The elusive 65 wins
Despite their 65-year history, the Wizards have never won 65 games in a single season. Their closest attempt came in the 1974-75 season, when they posted a 60-22 record. It remains the best regular season finish in franchise history.
That same year, the team made it all the way to the NBA Finals, where they lost to the Golden State Warriors. This is one of those rare seasons where Washington is considered a true championship contender.
Score close to 65 points
No player on the Wizards has scored 65 points in a game. However, the two superstars are close. In December 2006, Gilbert Arenas scored 60 points in an overtime victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Fifteen years later, Bradley Beal matched that record, scoring 60 points against the Philadelphia 76ers in January 2021.
Hit rate 65% or higher
Team and individual efficiency are also close to 65 points. Center Daniel Gafford averaged over 65% from the field in multiple seasons with the Wizards. Jordan Poole also matched that number in an overtime loss in 2024. As a team, Washington has shot 65 percent from the field in at least three games in its history.
Looking back to 1965
In 1965, the Baltimore Bullets made a fateful trade that added Bob Ferry and Bailey Howell to their roster. That same season, the Bullets entered the NBA playoffs for the first time and advanced to the Finals, where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Now, as the Wizards celebrate their 65th anniversary, fans are hoping the team can recapture that same playoff magic and finally return to the NBA’s biggest stage.
