WASHINGTON (AP) — The Washington Wizards secured the worst record in the NBA on Friday night after losing 140-117 to the Miami Heat. With this loss, they dropped to 17-64, marking their ninth straight defeat and 25 losses out of their last 26 games.
The Wizards are now the first team in NBA history to lose at least 64 games in three consecutive seasons. Previously, the Vancouver Grizzlies lost over 63 games in each of their first three seasons (1995-96 to 1997-98), and the Philadelphia 76ers during their “Process” era (2013-14 to 2015-16) also matched this level of futility.
For the Heat, who improved to 42-39, Simone Fontecchio and Pelle Larsson both scored 24 points each. Despite their recent struggles (losing 10 out of 13 games), they dominated Washington this season, averaging 143.5 points in four wins over the Wizards. Bam Adebayo led Miami with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. Earlier this season, he scored a franchise-high 83 points against Washington and averaged 34.8 points in games against them.
The Heat took control early, using a 10-0 run late in the first quarter to establish a lead they never relinquished. They led 34-23 after one quarter and 72-52 at halftime, shooting an impressive 63.2% (24 of 38) in the first half.
The Wizards briefly closed the gap to 92-82 late in the third quarter but couldn’t sustain it. Miami responded with a 13-3 run, re-establishing their lead. Bub Carrington scored 30 points for Washington, while Bilal Coulibaly added 19 of his 25 points in the first half.
The Heat played without Norman Powell (right groin soreness) and Tyler Herro (right foot soreness). They will close the regular season at home against Atlanta on Sunday. The Wizards, who ended with 30 points from Carrington, will conclude their season on the road against Cleveland.
Miami’s upcoming play-in tournament berth is secured as they look to improve their playoff positioning.