Washington Wizards fans have not had much to cheer about in the past several years. The Wizards have not made the playoffs since 2008 and have struggled to keep a stable coach because of their losing record seasons.

“The last time I was proud to be a Wizards was when they drafted John Wall number one overall in 2010,” said junior Gagandeep Gill. John Wall has changed the whole dynamic of the Wizards after joining the organization. His athleticism and length helps create havoc on defense and fast break opportunities. In terms of being the team’s most valuable player, Wall is a popular candidate.

“John Wall [is the MVP] because he’s been so consistent leading the team and hasn’t missed a game all season,” said Gill.

The Wizards entered the playoffs as a five seed in the Eastern Conference and beat the Chicago Bulls in a five game series. Many experts picked the veteran Bulls to beat out the young District of Columbia squad, but the Wizards surprised people around the league.

The Wizards were able to move on to the conference semifinals played the number one seed, the Indiana Pacers. The newly acquired big men, Marcin Gortat and Nene, have helped the Wizards so far against tougher, bigger teams.

“They’re both veterans and can teach the younger players,” said Gill, “They’ve also helped with interior defense and rebounding which the Wizards missed last year.”

Gortat and Nene have combined for 12.8 rebounds a game. However, they have not been the only newcomers to help the cause.

Second year player out of Florida, Bradley Beal, has been a key complement to Wall’s game. Bradley Beal has become a consistent three point shooter throughout the year.

With the Wizards being eliminated in six games to Indiana, Wizards fans are looking back and evaluating the past year.

“I would consider it [a successful season], no one expected them to go this far,” said Gill, “They got a lot of room to grow.”