Corey Kispert isn’t the type of player to dominate highlight reels with dunk contests or flashy crossover moves. But for anyone who appreciates the nuances of basketball— the unselfish cuts, the perfectly timed screens, the clutch catch-and-shoot threes—Corey Kispert is a masterclass in doing the little things right. From his days as a standout at Gonzaga University to his steady rise with the Washington Wizards, Corey Kispert has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s most reliable and underrated role players, proving that consistency and basketball IQ can be just as valuable as raw athleticism.
College Career: Forging a Legacy at Gonzaga Bulldogs
Corey Kispert’s journey to the NBA began at Gonzaga University, where he spent four years honing his craft under legendary coach Mark Few. As a freshman, he was a quiet contributor off the bench, but it didn’t take long for his work ethic to shine through. By his sophomore year, he had earned a starting spot, using his sharp three-point shot to become a key part of the Bulldogs’ offense. But Kispert didn’t stop there—he knew that to stand out in a crowded college basketball landscape, he needed to become a complete player.
During his junior year, Kispert dedicated himself to improving his defense and off-ball movement. He spent hours after practice working on his footwork, learning how to navigate screens to get open looks, and studying film to understand opposing players’ tendencies. By his senior season, he was a consensus All-American, leading the Bulldogs to an historic regular season run and a deep NCAA Tournament appearance. What made Kispert special at Gonzaga wasn’t just his shooting—it was his leadership. He was the guy who would stay late to help younger players with their shots, the guy who would take responsibility for mistakes in post-game interviews, and the guy who always put the team first.
Transition to the NBA: Corey Kispert’s Rise with the Washington Wizards
In the 2021 NBA Draft, the Washington Wizards selected Corey Kispert with the 15th overall pick, seeing in him the perfect floor spacer to complement their star players. The transition to the NBA wasn’t easy—Kispert had to adjust to the faster pace, stronger defenders, and higher stakes of professional basketball. But he stuck to his strengths: his three-point shot and his ability to move without the ball.
In his rookie season, Kispert quickly became a fan favorite in Washington. He earned more playing time as the season progressed, and by the end of the year, he was a regular in the rotation. Coaches praised his reliability—he rarely made bad decisions, and he always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. One of the most memorable moments of his rookie year came in a game against the Boston Celtics, where he hit three consecutive three-pointers in the fourth quarter to help the Wizards erase a double-digit deficit and secure a win. It was a moment that showcased Kispert’s clutch gene and his ability to perform under pressure.
Core Strengths: What Makes Corey Kispert Indispensable?
Corey Kispert’s success in the NBA can be attributed to three key strengths: his three-point shooting, his off-ball movement, and his basketball IQ.
First, his three-point shot is elite. Kispert has a quick release and a consistent follow-through, making him one of the league’s most accurate catch-and-shoot players. He’s equally deadly from the corner and the wing, and he can knock down shots even when defenders are in his face. What sets him apart is his ability to get open—he uses screens and cuts to create space, and he’s always looking for ways to make himself a threat.
Second, his off-ball movement is some of the best in the league. Kispert understands how to read defenses, knowing when to cut to the basket or pop out for a three. He’s a master at using his body to create separation, and he’s always moving, which keeps defenders on their toes. This movement not only creates opportunities for himself but also opens up lanes for his teammates to drive to the basket.
Third, his basketball IQ is off the charts. Kispert has a deep understanding of the game, from offensive sets to defensive rotations. He makes smart passes, avoids turnovers, and always seems to know where to be on the court. Coaches love this about him—he’s a player who can be trusted to execute the game plan without needing constant direction.
Impact on the Washington Wizards
For the Washington Wizards, Corey Kispert is more than just a three-point shooter—he’s a foundational piece of their team. In a league where floor spacing is critical, Kispert’s ability to stretch the defense opens up the entire offense. His presence on the court allows players like Jordan Poole to drive to the basket or pull up for shots without being double-teamed.
But Kispert’s impact goes beyond offense. Over the past few seasons, he has worked hard to improve his defense, becoming a solid perimeter defender who can guard multiple positions. He’s not the most athletic defender, but he uses his basketball IQ to anticipate plays and stay in front of his opponents. This versatility makes him even more valuable—coaches can put him on the court in any situation, whether they need a scoring boost or a defensive stop.
Future Outlook: Corey Kispert’s Potential to Grow
As Corey Kispert enters his third NBA season, the future looks bright. He’s already one of the league’s best three-point shooters, but he’s not content to stop there. He’s been working on his ball handling and creating his own shot, hoping to become a more well-rounded offensive player. If he can add these skills to his arsenal, he could become an even more dangerous threat on the court.
For the Wizards, Kispert is a key part of their rebuild. As the team looks to develop young talent and build a competitive roster, Kispert’s leadership and consistency will be invaluable. He’s the type of player who can mentor younger teammates, set an example in practice, and deliver in big games.
Conclusion
Corey Kispert may not be a household name yet, but he’s the type of player who wins championships. He’s the unsung hero who makes his teammates better, the guy who hits the shot that no one remembers but everyone needs. From his days at Gonzaga to his time with the Wizards, Corey Kispert has stayed true to his values: hard work, team first, and a commitment to excellence.
In a league that often celebrates flash over substance, Corey Kispert is a breath of fresh air. He reminds us that basketball is a team sport, and that the most valuable players aren’t always the ones with the highest scoring averages—they’re the ones who make the right play, every time. For anyone who loves the game of basketball, Corey Kispert is a name to watch. He’s just getting started, and the best is yet to come.