Mark Williams burst onto the scene as a dominant center for the Duke Blue Devils this past season and is primed to succeed in the NBA. His value only went higher during March Madness as he looked like a man among boys at times on the court.
Mark Williams 2022 NBA Draft Profile
College Career
Williams chose to attend Duke out of IMG Academy in 2019. He was a McDonald’s All-American and a five-star recruit according to 247Sports.
His debut season at Duke was solid overall. As a freshman, Williams averaged about seven points, five boards, and a block per game. This all came in 15 minutes on the floor.
In a larger role this past season, Williams truly blossomed. He averaged about 11 points, seven boards, and three blocks per game. He also shot over 72 percent from the floor, but only played just over 23 minutes per game. This, of course, was due to the fact that Duke was loaded with top players. Williams still won the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award, which of course earned him a spot on the ACC All-Defensive Team. He was also on the Third-team All-ACC squad.
Williams also had a number of special performances in this year’s March Madness. In the second round versus Michigan State, he scored 15 points, grabbed eight boards, and blocked five shots. He followed that up with 16 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks versus Texas Tech in the Sweet 16. Williams also had 12 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks versus Arkansas in the Elite Eight.
Strengths
Williams does a lot really well. He knows his primary role as a defensive enforcer and is fully committed to it. Overall he’s a borderline elite rim protector, he can rebound with the best of them, and block shots with ease. He’ll be entering the league with an NBA-ready frame as well. His instincts are very strong too, as Williams knows how to deter shots while avoiding foul trouble.
He’s also solid in plenty of aspects offensively. Williams will do the majority of his scoring near the rim (as seen in his outstanding 72 percent field goal percentage), but he’s also an above-average free-throw shooter for a player of his position.
It’s been said that traditional big men are going somewhat extinct in today’s NBA, but that’s not necessarily the case. For example, Kevon Looney has been pivotal for the Golden State Warriors in their run to the NBA Finals.
Weaknesses
There really isn’t much to not like when it comes to Williams’ game. Perhaps he doesn’t have true superstar potential, but he’ll do all the little things well. One can expect top defensive effort, rebounding on both sides of the floor, rim protection, and inside scoring.
Williams can be heavy-footed at times, which will create disadvantages with the uber-athletic big men in the NBA, but this is an issue that can be addressed. He can also expand his offensive game, which is likely something NBA coaches will prioritize with him as he’s already very strong defensively.
NBA Player Comparison for Mark Williams
Clint Capela is a close NBA comparison for Williams. They both rebound at a very high level and are amongst the top rim protectors at their level. Both players aren’t necessarily seen as offensive forces, but more so important defensive anchors.
NBA Draft Projection
Williams can potentially see himself selected in the late lottery, but he’ll likely be drafted between picks 15 and 20.
