Mark Williams

Williams is an American center who entered the NBA as a first-round pick in 2022 after a rapid rise at Duke University. Known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and lob-finishing ability, he became the Hornets' starting center before a series of trades sent him to the Los Angeles Lakers and eventually the Phoenix Suns.

Born Mark Oluwafemi Williams on December 16, 2001, in Norfolk, Virginia, he began his high school career at Norfolk Academy before transferring to IMG Academy in Florida for his senior season. He was named a 2020 McDonald's All-American. At IMG, he solidified his standing as a top prospect with size, mobility, and defensive instincts.

Williams committed to Duke on November 1, 2019, over Michigan and UCLA. As a freshman, he averaged 7.1 points and 4.5 rebounds while showing flashes of rim protection. As a sophomore, he emerged as one of the best defensive big men in the ACC, averaging 11.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. He scored a career-high 28 points against Syracuse and was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year and Third Team All-ACC.

The Charlotte Hornets selected Williams with the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft. He spent three seasons in Charlotte, gradually becoming the team's starting center and establishing himself as a lob threat and rim protector. In February 2025, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, but the deal was rescinded, causing him to return to Charlotte. He was later traded to the Phoenix Suns during the 2025 offseason.

Williams is a traditional big man with elite vertical athleticism, shot-blocking timing, and finishing ability around the rim. He scores primarily on lobs, putbacks, and rolls to the basket. Defensively, his length and timing allow him to protect the paint and contest shots without excessive fouling. His development focus centers on expanding his offensive game and improving his defensive positioning in space.