Washington Wizards Sign Sharife Cooper to Two-Way Contract

The Washington Wizards have signed guard Sharife Cooper to a two-way contract, enhancing their point guard depth as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. Cooper, 24, will split his time between the Wizards and their G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go. This signing fills the Wizards' final two-way contract spot, joining Tristan Vukcevic and Jamir Watkins.

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contractWizards Sign Sharife Cooper To Two-Way Contract, Add Keshon Gilbert & Jonathan Pierre On Exhibit 10 DealsWizards Sign Sharife Cooper, Keshon Gilbert, Jonathan PierreWizards add Sharife Cooper on two-way deal

Sharife Cooper was selected by the Atlanta Hawks as the 48th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. During his rookie season, he played 13 games for the Hawks, averaging just three minutes per game. Following his time in Atlanta, Cooper spent three seasons primarily in the G League, where he averaged 19.3 points and 8.0 assists per game with the Cleveland Charge during the 2023-24 season. Last year, he played overseas in Turkey, Greece, and France, notably averaging 14.7 points and 3.8 assists in EuroCup play with Aris Thessaloniki.

After a season overseas, former five-star recruit returns to the NBAWizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contractWizards sign 3 playersWizards Sign Sharife Cooper, Keshon Gilbert, Jonathan Pierre

The Wizards have emphasized player development as part of their rebuilding strategy. The franchise recently drafted Tre Johnson with the No. 6 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and acquired Will Riley and Jamir Watkins through a trade with the Utah Jazz. The current backcourt rotation includes veterans CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton, alongside younger players like Bilal Coulibaly, Bub Carrington, and AJ Johnson. Cooper's addition is seen as a way to bolster competition for minutes within the team.

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contract

The Wizards announced the signing of Cooper, along with Keshon Gilbert and Jonathan Pierre, who were signed to Exhibit 10 contracts. These contracts allow players to earn a bonus if they later join the G League affiliate. The team’s senior vice president for player personnel, Travis Schlenk, previously served as the Hawks' head of basketball operations when Cooper was drafted, indicating a continuity of interest in the player.

Wizards Sign Sharife Cooper, Keshon Gilbert, Jonathan PierreWizards sign 3 playersWizards add Sharife Cooper on two-way dealWizards Sign Sharife Cooper To Two-Way Contract, Add Keshon Gilbert & Jonathan Pierre On Exhibit 10 Deals

While the signing of Cooper has been generally well-received, some analysts question whether his previous performance in the NBA justifies a two-way contract. Critics point to his limited impact during his rookie season and the challenges he faced transitioning between leagues. However, supporters argue that his recent G League performance demonstrates significant improvement and potential.

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contract

• “The Washington Wizards have signed Sharife Cooper to a two-way contract.” — Washington Wizards Announcement

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contract

• “0 assists for the G League's Cleveland Charge during the 2023-24 season.” — Michael Scotto, HoopsHype

Wizards Sign Sharife Cooper To Two-Way Contract, Add Keshon Gilbert & Jonathan Pierre On Exhibit 10 Deals

• “The structure gives teams flexibility to evaluate talent without committing a full roster spot.” — Analysis on two-way contracts

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contract

The Wizards are set to begin training camp on September 29, 2025, where Cooper will have the opportunity to compete for a role on the NBA roster. The team's focus will be on integrating their new signings and assessing their potential contributions as they aim for a successful season.

Wizards sign Sharife Cooper to two-way contract