Duane Washington Jr. sets franchise rookie 3-point record

Indiana Pacers guard Duane Washington Jr. on Monday registered a career high in points and a franchise record for a rookie in a 117-113 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans.

Washington finished with 21 points, three assists and two rebounds on 7-of-12 shooting from 3-point range in 23 minutes. His seven 3-pointers set the franchise record by a rookie, surpassing the previous mark of six by Chuck Person and Chris Duarte.

He is the second rookie to score 20 points without attempting a 2-pointer or free throw.

“I just had a good rhythm coming into the game and had a good warmup,” Washington said. “My guys believe in me to make shots and they put me in some great positions tonight to make a lot. Just being confident in myself, and the coaches and players believing in me as well. Credit to them just as much as me believing in my abilities.”

Washington, who went undrafted last year out of Ohio State, is signed to a two-way contract with the Pacers. He played sparingly during the first two months of the season but entered the rotation on Dec. 31 with the Pacers dealing with several injuries.

Since entering the rotation, Washington is averaging 10.3 points, 2.2 assists and 1.7 rebounds in 12 games on 36.5% shooting from 3-point range. He has taken full advantage of his opportunity, something head coach Rick Carlisle has noticed.

He is always ready. He is always on. He has been a great practice player ever since summer league. He had some tremendous days in training camp and has had a lot of good games recently. He can shoot the ball. He knows how to play the game.

He brings energy and his presence on the floor creates a real positive vibe and a real positive movement factor for our team. For a guy that was undrafted and who is on a two-way contract, he has done a tremendous job.

The countless hours of work Washington has put in appear to be paying off for him. He has provided a real lift for the Pacers as of late and that production should ensure he continues to see playing time for the team moving forward.