Report: Bruce Pearl provides update on Jaylin Williams' playing status

Early in the second half of Friday’s game between the Auburn Tigers and Jacksonville State, Auburn stars Walker Kessler and Jaylin Williams were involved in a scary collision under the basket. Kessler went up to block a shot, and as he came down, his arm swing out and his elbow caught Williams in the mouth, chipping multiple teeth.

Kessler was able to return in the second half despite a gash on his elbow, but Williams did not return during the second half with Auburn holding a commanding lead. Williams apparently lost a tooth on the play, and he remained on the court for an extended period of time due to the collision. He was able to walk off under his own power, but went straight to the Tigers locker room.

Ahead of Sunday’s Round of 32 matchup between Auburn and Miami, Tigers head coach Bruce Pearl has updated the status of Williams.

“Auburn’s Jaylin Williams (teeth) practiced yesterday and ‘should be good’ for today’s NCAA Tournament game against Miami, per Bruce Pearl,” Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports tweeted.

Pearl went more in depth on Williams later on Saturday night.

“Oh, Jaylin Williams practiced today,” said Pearl. “He had some dental repair work done yesterday afternoon. He was evaluated last night and this morning with the concussion protocol. He passed. Doctors let him move around, and he wasn’t bothered by it today in practice. We’ll see if there’s any residual effect later on tonight, then we’ll check him again tonight and tomorrow morning.”

Williams is a key player off of Auburn’s bench

Williams began his collegiate career with the Tigers during the 2019-2020 season, coming off the bench in each of the 14 games he appeared in. That year, he played just 7.1 minutes per game and averaged 2.4 points and 1.8 rebounds. Last season, though, Williams started each of the 27 games he played in. He averaged 26.4 minutes per game, posting a line of 10.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 blocks.

This year, Williams has returned to a reserve role on Auburn’s bench. He has played in 32 games, all of which he came off the bench. He is playing 13.6 minutes per game, averaging 5.4 points with 2.6 rebounds and 0.8 assists.

Prior to his injury in the win over Jacksonville State, Williams had eight points on 3-for-3 shooting, including a perfect 2-for-2 from three-point range. He also grabbed one rebound.

Auburn takes on 10th-seeded Miami on Sunday night, with a berth in the Sweet 16 on the line.