Mavericks’ P.J. Washington Draws Strength from Faith as Season Unfolds

DALLAS — Amid a tumultuous season for the Dallas Mavericks, forward P.J. Washington has found solace and discipline through a powerful childhood gift—a Bible. Since traumas plagued the team, including injuries and the controversial trade of superstar Luka Dončić, Washington has relied on his faith as a guiding force.

Washington has kept a Bible in his locker, taking it with him on the road as he seeks both worship and daily guidance. He particularly finds comfort in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Always submit to him and he will make your paths straight.” He noted its significance as both his first tattoo and a lifelong reminder to keep faith at the forefront.

“Leave it all up to him. That’s all we can do. Keep praying, keep worshiping, and keep believing,” Washington told Andscape. His sentiments reflect the challenges faced by the Mavericks this season, including injuries to key players and public outcry over roster changes.

The Mavericks have struggled to find their footing, currently sitting at a 39-43 record after trading Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in a deal that has drawn widespread criticism. With injuries to fellow players, including All-Star guard Kyrie Irving and forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper, Washington’s perspective on team unity and faith remains crucial.

“It says a lot about this group,” Washington said. “No matter who is playing, we all have the same mentality. We keep God first and are just trying to go out there and fight for him.” As the 10th seed in the Western Conference playoffs, Dallas faces the Sacramento Kings in a do-or-die play-in game tonight at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Despite their regular-season struggles against the Kings, Washington is optimistic about a different outcome now that the team is healthier, welcoming back Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford.

“I don’t think we were healthy in any of those matchups we played them,” Washington stated following a recent practice. “With AD (Davis), it will be better for us. I can’t wait to get there and play. I’m just excited for the moment.” Washington’s enthusiasm counters the prevailing pessimism surrounding the team.

Washington, who grew up in a faith-focused family, shared fond memories of Sunday services with his parents, who often took him to church. This background inspired his father’s gift: a dual-tone leather Bible inscribed with his name. While modern technology led Washington to rely on a Bible app in recent years, rediscovering his childhood Bible before a recent game against the Charlotte Hornets sparked a significant spiritual connection.

“I just felt the need to bring it with me every day,” he said. “Being in the word more opens up everything in life. I feel a lot better about myself.” During his time with the Mavericks, Washington has relished the opportunity to deepen his faith through daily readings and reflections.

Since incorporating this spiritual discipline into his routine, Washington’s performance on the court has improved markedly. Averaging 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists through 57 games, March proved his most productive month, with an average of 19.1 points and multiple 25-plus point games.

“I’m just being disciplined, and it’s showing in my game. It’s showing me how to be a father,” Washington explained. His renewed focus manifesting in both personal and professional growth has been noticed by his teammates.

As the Mavericks aim for a playoff berth, Washington evokes the biblical story of David and Goliath for inspiration. “Right now, it’s just about trusting and believing the process,” Washington noted. “We have a great roster built to win now and in the future.” With faith as his foundation, Washington prepares to face the challenges ahead, embodying resilience in both sport and spirit.