Washington, DC -- (Sports Network) - The Washington Wizards signed center JaVale McGee, their 2008 first-round draft pick, to a contract on Wednesday.

The 7-foot McGee, who was selected 18th overall, was an early entry candidate out of Nevada. He led the WAC in blocked shots last season (2.8 bpg), and finished second among all WAC players in rebounding (7.3 rpg).

"JaVale has a chance to be a solid addition to our team, so we're excited to have him officially signed," Wizards president Ernie Grunfeld said. "We were impressed with his athleticism and shot blocking when we were scouting him prior to the draft and are anxious to see him compete at the NBA level."