Last week I started a series of Scouting Profiles where I took a deep look at each player on the Kentucky Basketball team and evaluated their game the way an NBA scout might.

I’ve covered Andrew Carr, Lamont Butler, Jaxson Robinson, and Otega Oweh. Today, I’ll be scouting the Wildcats’ starting center, Amari Williams.

NBA Draft Scouting Report: Amari Williams

•Position: Power Forward / Center

•Jersey Number: #22

•Height/Weight: 7’0, 262 lbs

•College: Kentucky (Transfer from Drexel)

Career Stats

•2023-24 (Drexel): 12.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 2.4 BPG, 54.3% FG, 71.2% FT

•2022-23 (Drexel): 13.5 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 2.9 APG, 2.3 BPG, 50.1% FG, 68.7% FT

•2021-22 (Drexel): 9.5 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.8 APG, 2.2 BPG, 49.6% FG

Physical Profile

Amari Williams is a physically imposing big man standing at 7’0 with a solid 262-pound frame. His combination of size, length, and strength allows him to be a dominant presence in the paint on both ends of the floor. He has a 7’3” wingspan which helps him contest shots, alter opponents’ offensive rhythm, and be a consistent force on the boards. Williams moves well for his size, showing mobility that makes him effective in pick-and-roll defense and transition situations.

Offensive Strengths

•Post Scoring: Williams is an adept post player with a variety of moves to score around the basket. He uses his size and footwork to seal defenders and finish efficiently in the paint. His soft touch near the rim allows him to convert high-percentage looks.

•Rebounding: Williams is a tenacious rebounder — particularly on the offensive glass — where he creates second-chance opportunities for his team. His timing and physicality make him a constant threat on the boards.

•Passing from the Post: A key part of Williams’ offensive game is his ability to pass out of double-teams or find cutters. He averaged nearly 3 assists per game at Drexel showcasing his vision and decision-making when the defense collapses on him.

•Pick-and-Roll Play: He excels as a roll man in the pick-and-roll, using his size and mobility to finish lobs or seal off defenders for easy baskets. His ability to set hard screens and dive to the rim makes him an ideal fit in screen-heavy offensive schemes.

Defensive Strengths

•Rim Protection: One of Williams’ most valuable assets is his ability to protect the rim. He averaged over 2 blocks per game at Drexel using his timing and wingspan to alter shots inside. His defensive instincts make him a formidable interior presence.

•Switchability: Amari is surprisingly agile for his size, showing the ability to switch onto guards and wings in pick-and-roll situations. His lateral movement allows him to hedge and recover, making him a versatile defender in multiple defensive schemes.

•Defensive Rebounding: Williams is a reliable rebounder on the defensive end, boxing out effectively and securing possessions. His physicality and timing help him control the glass and prevent second-chance points.

Areas of Improvement

•Mid-Range and Perimeter Shooting: He has shown some touch around the basket but does need to expand his shooting range. Developing a reliable mid-range jumper or even a three-point shot could make him a more versatile offensive threat, especially in today’s NBA where big men are often expected to space the floor.

•Free Throw Shooting: While not a liability, Williams’ free throw percentage hovers in the low 70’s. Continuing to improve in this area will be key, especially as he draws more fouls at the next level.

•Foul Trouble: Amari can be prone to picking up fouls due to his aggressive shot-blocking tendencies. Learning to stay disciplined on defense — particularly avoiding unnecessary fouls — will be critical for his ability to stay on the court.

NBA Comparison

Amari Williams’ game is reminiscent of players like Clint Capela or Daniel Gafford— rim-protecting big men who thrive as lob threats and paint enforcers. His defensive prowess, rebounding, and ability to finish inside make him an ideal modern center, while his passing from the post adds a unique layer to his game that sets him apart from a traditional rim-running big.

Draft Projection

Amari Williams currently projects as a mid-to-late second-round pick with the potential to rise if he can expand his offensive game beyond the paint. His elite shot-blocking, rebounding, and mobility give him a high floor as a role player in the NBA, and if his shooting improves, he could become a valuable two-way big man in a team’s rotation.

I have now created Scouting Profiles for Andrew Carr, Lamont Butler, Jaxson Robinson, Otega Oweh, and Amari Williams. Keep an eye out for a new one every day!

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