NBA Summer League: Grant Williams’ debuted as a productive leader

Grant Williams made his NBA Summer League debut, and he was very productive as the on the court leader for the Boston Celtics.

We all knew Grant Williams was a special player. He took the Tennessee basketball program to heights that fans don’t see very often. He also was the first player to win back-to-back SEC Player of the Year awards since Arkansas’ Corliss Williamson did it in 1993-94 and 1994-95.

Sure there were many questions on how his game was going to translate to the NBA. However, Williams is the type of player to work on his craft and become a reliable talent at the next level.

I know it’s just the NBA Summer League but, Williams looked good his in debut on Saturday against the Philadelphia 76ers. Coming off the bench, Williams played 20 minutes, more than three starters.

Those 20 minutes displayed 12 points on 4-for-8 from the floor, including 2-for-4 from the three-point line. Many worried about his ability to stretch the floor and knock down that long-range jumper. It’s just one game, but Williams took smart shots, and it paid off.

Along with the 12 points, Williams pulled six rebounds, five being defensive rebounds which is huge but not allowing extra chance opportunities for the opposing team.

Williams also had two assists, two steals, and two blocks with a +/- number of +21, the highest on either team.

Again, this is just the Summer League, and it’s only one game. Williams may never have the skills to be an NBA All-Star. He may never be the best player on his team. However, he has the leadership capabilities to showcase his teammates and be a very successful player on a good team.

Only time will tell, but the Celtics made a great decision drafting Grant Williams with the No.22 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Williams and the Boston Celtics are back in action on Monday night at 7:30 pm against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The game will be televised on ESPN3.