With the John Wall era officially over in D.C., the Wizards are setting a new course behind their new duo, Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal. While optimism has been an early reaction from fans, saying goodbye to Wall wasn’t an easy thing to do for a lot of them.
Perhaps the most powerful of these moments came from Wizards star Bradley Beal himself, who shared some kind and warmhearted words to his friend and former teammate.
Thank you!! Can’t say those two words enough. You accepted me as young pup in HS and then for 8 amazing years in DC! Wall/Beal hate each other was the biggest amount of BS we endured, but you and I both know the REAL! You are my brother 4L and that bond is way bigger than this game we play! We had amazing memories that’ll always be cherished and never forgotten! The city of DC loves you and appreciates every ounce of the blood, sweat, and tears you gave to the game and the community. Your works and name will continue in the nations capital. H-Town, y’all are getting a real solid brother!!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CIZHBDJHSNa
He also talked a bit about what kind of an adjustment it has been like for him.
"It’s been an emotional week. . . just kind of letting it all seep in and realizing that your brother is no longer here with you no more. He’s off to something better."
– Bradley Beal on John Wall
(h/t @FredKatz ) pic.twitter.com/Fs38YiK01U
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 4, 2020
Wall and Beal had been teammates for the past eight years, taking the Wizards to a respectable standing in the East. Unfortunately, injuries decimated their team, and they’ve been unable to make any real noise as a result. Given extra time, with both players healthy, who knows what they could have accomplished together this season.
Alas, it just wasn’t in the cards.
Westbrook and Beal are the new shining stars, and Wall will be working with James Harden to bring a Chip back to H-Town. It will be interesting to see, no matter how heartbreaking it may be.
