Corey Kispert earned the start on Tuesday as the Washington Wizards opened up the preseason, and it may have been a recent practice that helped give him the nod versus the Houston Rockets.

Wizards guard Spencer Dinwiddie revealed that Kispert was a “flamethrower” during a recent scrimmage leading up to the preseason opener. Kispert essentially couldn’t miss from beyond the arc and even flashed some of his athleticism.

Kispert responded by recording 12 points, two rebounds, one assist and one steal in 25 minutes of work in the loss to the Rockets. He went 5-of-9 from the field, including 2-of-6 from 3-point range, during his first action with the Wizards.

Dinwiddie sees Kispert as a strong fit within the starting lineup.

He can really shoot, smart-headed. He is going to get to space. I think that is really big for our team because, obviously, Brad (Beal) is a prolific driver so we have to find ways to continue to create space. Kispert already having some of that ingrained in him, makes him an easy fit to play with the main unit.

Kispert, the 15th overall pick, recently started practicing with the starters, which were Dinwiddie, Beal, Kyle Kuzma and Daniel Gafford. He also believes he is a good fit within that group given his ability to space the floor and make plays.

The 22-year-old has leaned on those players throughout training camp for advice. They have given him plenty of tips and pointers in practices, and where they expect him to be on the floor during a given play. It has allowed Kispert to have a smooth transition to this point.

Overall, Kispert was pleased with his first preseason performance.

I’ve played in big arenas and big environments a lot but this was different. It was different having the NBA experience, getting my first NBA basket. (I was) really, really happy with how today went just on a personal level.

First preseason game in the books for @corey_kispert! 12 points on 5-9 FG 👌👌👌 pic.twitter.com/BBmZpFgqBq

— Priority Sports (@PrioritySports) October 6, 2021

Kispert figures to play a large role with the Wizards this season given his ability to space the floor. He showed some of that ability and more on Tuesday and could find himself as a full-time starter when it is all said and done.

This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!