Go-Go Two-Ways Show Strong Preseason Play  

Preseason was a time to shine for Eugene Omoruyi and Jared Butler, who both put in quality minutes for the Wizards this month. This was an opportunity to show the Wizards coaching staff what they can do, and a chance for Go-Go fans to see what they can expect to see from Jared and Eugene at Entertainment & Sports Arena this season.  

Eugene Omoruyi played 12 minutes in each of the three preseason games he participated in, averaging 12.7 points per game, shooting 62% from the field, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals . He had a standout performance against Cairns Taipans where he scored 16 points in a single quarter, adding 3 steals and 2 rebounds, while going 6-8 from the field.  

During media availability the day after his dominant performance vs. Cairns Taipans, Omoruyi explained that he chose to compete for a spot on an NBA roster, rather than go overseas, because he loves NBA basketball. “Coming here to compete and just proving myself is the biggest thing for me. That’s what I always take away every time I step on the court.”  

Jared Butler appeared in all four of the Wizards preseason games, averaging 9 minutes in each. His support player strengths were heavily featured, averaging 3.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. Butler’s best performance came against Toronto where he played 12 minutes with 6 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals.  

Butler’s resume includes a standout performance in Baylor’s national championship game, where he had 22 points, 7 assists and 3 rebounds, beating (now teammate) Corey Kispert’s Gonzaga Bulldogs and was named Final Four Most Outstanding Player. Last season with OKC he averaged 6.2 points in under 13 minutes, including shooting 50% for three in six appearances.  

John Butler Jr. Will be joining Jared Butler and Eugene Omoruyi this season as the Wizard’s third two-way contracted player. You can catch all three in ESA this season, where they’ll continue to develop into NBA caliber athletes.