Amari Williams is headed to Boston and he brings a load of potential with him
Amari Williams, Kentucky’s physical center, was selected by the Boston Celtics as pick 46 in the 2nd round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Drawing parallels to Nikola Jokić, a second-round gem turned MVP, Williams brings elite passing and rebounding for a big man.
He becomes the 2nd Kentucky player off the board, following Koby Brea who was selected by Phoenix just 5 picks ahead of him at 41.
His 2024-25 stats—10.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks, 56.1% FG, 25.0% 3P, and 62.3% FT in 36 games—highlight his versatility and potential. Like Jokić, Williams can initiate offense and find cutters, though his scoring polish lags behind. HoopsHype notes his “solid rebounding and passing instincts” and defensive presence, and that is exactly what he will bring early on to the Celtics.
While Williams isn’t eyed as a future MVP, his ability to anchor a defense, crash the boards, and facilitate from the post could carve out a steady NBA career. His 6-10 frame and improving feel as a passer make him a project with upside, especially for teams patient enough to develop his offensive game. And Boston has a lot of time to do so. With Jayson Tatum out next year, and Boston rebuilding towards that, they can afford to let him develop.
The Athletic praises his defensive versatility, suggesting he could stick as a rotational big. Whether he’s a backup center or a G League standout early on, Williams’ unique skill set gives him a shot to outplay his draft position.
Roster context and potential role
Williams could thrive in a system needing a defensive anchor with playmaking chops, potentially alongside a scoring guard or wing. Enter Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Landing with Boston, is a good fit and while he most certainly will start in the G-League, a two contract early in the year is not out of the question; especially as Boston will look to develop players next season. With his ball handling, passing, rebounding and defense Willaims has the potential to carve out a Joker-lite career for one of the most successful franchises in sports.