Ziaire Williams
Height: 6-8
Weight: 185
Position: G
College: Stanford
Ziaire Williams was highly recruited out of high school, choosing to play his college ball at Stanford. Unfortunately, his on court results didn’t fully materialize immediately but the talent is there. Williams declared for the NBA Draft after one year at Stanford where he averaged 10.7 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. He shot 42% from the field and 29% from three-point land.
Strengths
Williams has a 6-10 wingspan and can finish above the rim. He can also change speed and directions in transition with ease. Williams can make shots off the dribble and off catch and shoot situations. Williams can be an outstanding pick and roll player with his shot-making and playmaking ability. Additionally, he has good court vision which allows him to make strong passes and find teammates for open looks. Williams plays the passing lanes well on defense and can rotate from the weak side for charges and block attempts. His length will make Williams a terrific on-ball defender.
Weaknesses
Williams will need to get stronger; currently weighing only 185 pounds. A lack of strength could limit how many positions he can guard at the pro level. At times, the former Stanford star struggles to remain aggressive and knowing when to get his teammates involved. Although Williams sometimes settles for contested jumpers, his lack of strength makes him periodically shy away from contact.
Prediction
It will be interesting to see where Wiliams will land on draft night; he could go as high eight to the Orlando Magic or in the late 20s. Scouts love his intangibles, but view him as a bit of a project who may not make an immediate impact on a contender. There’s no doubt Williams has a lot of talent, and if he can add some muscle to his frame, I think he could turn out to be a true sleeper pick in the draft.
-LaMarr Fields
Twitter: @raiderway83