Amari Williams Frame: 7'0", 262 lbs Position: Center Team: Kentucky Wildcats 2025 Draft Age: 23

Offense Amari Williams is a physical and skilled big man whose primary value comes from his polished post-game, strength, and playmaking ability. He effectively utilizes his sturdy 262-pound frame to establish deep post position, finishing efficiently at the rim with a 70 percent conversion rate. His strength allows him to absorb contact and draw fouls at a consistent rate, providing valuable offensive opportunities. Williams also stands out as a facilitator from the post, recording 115 assists in his final college season, showcasing excellent vision and decision-making. He thrives in orchestrating offense through handoffs, cuts, and post-entry passes, effectively creating scoring opportunities for teammates. However, Williams' offensive ceiling is capped by limited perimeter skills and below-average ball-handling. His lack of reliable outside shooting restricts his effectiveness in modern NBA spacing schemes, and his struggles creating offense from the perimeter further confine him primarily to the paint. His high usage at Kentucky is unlikely to translate directly to the NBA, where he will need to adapt to a reduced role focused more on screen-setting, diving to the rim, and short-roll passing. NBA teams will initially deploy Williams as an interior facilitator and physical finisher off the bench. Improvement in his ball-handling and developing a reliable mid-range jumper would significantly enhance his offensive versatility, potentially expanding his role within an NBA offense. Defense Defensively, Williams offers a sturdy presence around the basket with his strong frame, decent length, and effective shot-blocking capabilities. Winning two CAA Defensive Player of the Year awards highlights his ability to anchor a defense and protect the paint. His defensive instincts are generally solid, reflected in his disciplined positioning and timely rotations. However, his lack of foot speed and agility significantly limits his ability to defend in space, especially when switched onto quicker guards and wings. Williams struggles with pick-and-roll coverage outside the paint, often being caught out of position or slow to react to perimeter threats. NBA offenses that weaponize pick-and-pop actions and force multiple closeouts could exploit these weaknesses. He will need to improve his lateral quickness and defensive mobility to become more effective guarding away from the basket. NBA teams will initially use Williams in conservative defensive schemes, primarily drop coverage, to maximize his strengths around the rim while minimizing his exposure in space. Enhanced conditioning and agility drills will be essential to increase his defensive versatility and effectiveness. Looking Ahead Amari Williams projects as a second round flier who could spend some time in the G League. His blend of interior scoring, playmaking, and physical defensive presence provides him a pathway to the NBA. Further developing his perimeter skills, ball-handling, and defensive mobility will be crucial for carving out a lasting role. With targeted improvements, Williams could eventually establish himself as a dependable rotational big, capable of contributing reliable interior play and facilitating from the frontcourt.