Mark Williams compares himself to NBA Finals star

Mark Williams emerged as a star at Duke this past year, winning ACC Defensive Player of the Year and becoming a first-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He has an interesting skill set — but he thinks it’s one that appeared on the NBA’s biggest stage this year.

Williams compared his game to that of Boston Celtics star Robert Williams, who helped Boston to the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. Robert Williams averaged 10 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game for the Celtics, while Mark Williams 11.2 points, 7.4 boards and 2.8 blocks per contest at Duke last season.

The numbers are similar — so maybe Williams is onto something.

“I’d say, right now, I’m similar to a guy like Robert Williams,” Williams said in his introductory press conference. “His ability to catch lobs, protect the rim, run the floor for Boston. I think a guy like that is someone I could say I’m pretty similar to right now.”

The Charlotte Hornets took Williams as the No. 15 overall pick in the draft last month, and he’s now getting ready for NBA Summer League action.

Charlotte Hornets officially sign Mark Williams to a contract

The Charlotte Hornets officially added two players to their roster. Mark Williams and Bryce McGowens both signed their respective contracts, the team announced.

Williams was the Hornets’ first-round pick, going No. 15 overall in the first round, and signed his rookie contract on Saturday. McGowens was Charlotte’s second-round pick and signed a two-way deal, meaning he’ll split time between Charlotte and the Greensboro Swarm in the NBA G-League. NBA teams are allowed two two-way spots on their rosters.

Williams was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year last year and was a big reason Duke was able to make the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. He helped the Blue Devils to a 32-7 overall record, including a 16-4 mark in ACC action in Mike Krzyzewski’s final season as head coach.