Former Maryland and Texas A&M standout returns to his hometown after earning an NBA Summer League opportunity with the New Orleans Pelicans following a career-best senior season.
For Solomon Washington, the journey to professional basketball has come full circle.
The former Maryland Terrapins forward has signed a free agent contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, giving the New Orleans native an opportunity to begin his NBA career with the team representing his hometown. Washington is expected to join the Pelicans during the NBA Summer League, where he'll compete for a roster spot and showcase the relentless energy that made him one of college basketball's premier rebounders.
The signing marks another significant milestone for a player whose path has been defined by perseverance, defensive excellence, and unwavering determination.
Washington delivered his finest collegiate campaign during his lone season in College Park.
Despite missing the first eight games of the season because of injury, the versatile forward returned to the starting lineup in December and quickly became one of Maryland's most indispensable players.
He averaged a career-high 9.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, leading the Terrapins with 230 total rebounds while averaging a team-best 31.9 minutes per contest.
Washington also recorded six double-doubles, establishing himself as one of the Big Ten's most consistent interior performers on both ends of the floor.
His combination of rebounding, defensive versatility and relentless hustle made him one of Maryland's emotional leaders throughout the season.
Built a Winning Resume
Across four collegiate seasons split between Texas A&M and Maryland, Washington appeared in 122 career games, making 69 starts.
He completed his college career with impressive all-around production:
- 744 career points
- 676 rebounds
- 112 blocked shots
- 96 steals
- 88 assists
While his offensive numbers steadily improved, Washington's reputation was built on toughness, rebounding and defensive impact—qualities that often translate well to the professional game.
Louisiana Basketball Royalty
Long before starring in the Big Ten and SEC, Washington established himself as one of Louisiana's premier high school athletes.
The G.W. Carver High School standout led the Rams to a 33-5 record and the Louisiana Class 4A State Championship, earning 2022 Gatorade Louisiana Boys Basketball Player of the Year honors.
- 14.9 points per game
- 11.1 rebounds
- 3.0 assists
- 2.6 blocks
- 2.4 steals
Washington recorded 23 double-doubles, highlighted by an unforgettable championship game performance featuring:
- 14 points
- 20 rebounds
- 9 assists
- 6 blocked shots
By graduation, he had amassed an astonishing **1,642 career points** and **1,435 rebounds**, cementing his legacy as one of Louisiana's most accomplished prep players.
Summer League Opportunity Awaits
Now Washington faces his biggest challenge yet.
The NBA Summer League provides undrafted players an invaluable opportunity to prove they belong at basketball's highest level. For Washington, his relentless motor, elite rebounding instincts and defensive versatility could make him an intriguing fit for a Pelicans organization seeking athletic depth in the frontcourt.
Returning home to New Orleans only adds another layer of motivation.
Playing professionally in front of family, friends and the community that watched him develop from a standout at G.W. Carver High School into a Division I star offers the chance to complete a remarkable hometown journey.
A Player Built for the Next Level
While many NBA hopefuls rely primarily on scoring, Washington's game is built around effort, toughness and winning the possession battle.
His ability to defend multiple positions, protect the rim, attack the glass and consistently outwork opponents has earned him opportunities at every level of basketball.
Now, the New Orleans native will attempt to turn a Summer League invitation into a permanent NBA home.
For Solomon Washington, the dream isn't simply reaching the league—it's doing so while wearing the jersey of the city that helped shape his basketball journey.
Career Highlights
- Signed an NBA free agent contract with the New Orleans Pelicans
- Expected to compete in NBA Summer League
- Career-best 9.8 PPG and 9.2 RPG at Maryland
- Team leader with 230 rebounds
- Averaged 31.9 minutes per game
- Six double-doubles during final collegiate season
- 122 career games between Maryland and Texas A&M
- 2022 Gatorade Louisiana Boys Basketball Player of the Year
- Louisiana Class 4A State Champion at G.W. Carver High School
======
-- By James W. Thomas
© Copyright 2026 JWT Communications. All rights reserved. This article cannot be republished, rebroadcast, rewritten, or distributed in any form without written permission.
No comments:
Post a Comment