Mark Williams shares thoughts on joining the Charlotte Hornets

Mark Williams won’t have to move too far after the 2022 NBA Draft. After two seasons in Durham, North Carolina at Duke, he’ll head to Charlotte to play for the Hornets after being selected 15th overall. With the draft behind him now, he will begin to prepare for his rookie season.

Williams was introduced in a press conference alongside Bryce McGowens, the Hornets No. 40 pick, and Hornets GM Mitch Kupchak. He says he’s excited to join the franchise after a great workout with them in the pre-draft process.

“It’s surreal. Obviously I worked out here and had a great workout,” said Williams. “To come back here and have an opportunity to be a part of this organization is great. I’m really excited for it. I just can’t wait.”

Williams had a breakout sophomore season with the Blue Devils. He averaged 11.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.8 blocks as the defensive anchor for Duke. Williams played a key part in getting his team to the Final Four in 2022. That production combined with the length of a 7’7 wingspan and a 9’9 standing reach shot him to the top of Kupchak’s center rankings for the draft.

That kind of distinction from his new front office is something Williams says he appreciates.

“It means a lot. I’ve been working really hard to get to this point but for people to believe in me is really important. I’m thankful that they did,” he said. “I’m glad they took a chance on me and they won’t regret it.”

Charlotte will rely on Williams to bring that defensive prowess he showed at Duke. The Hornets finished with the 22nd ranked defense in the NBA last season. He also slides in perfectly as a lob threat for LaMelo Ball. Williams didn’t have to go too far and will get his chance to prove Charlotte right when they open in Summer League on July 8th.