The 2025 NBA Draft delivered its fair share of surprises, and one of the more intriguing moves came at pick No. 46. The Orlando Magic selected University of Kentucky center Amari Williams, but the 7-footer’s NBA journey will begin in Boston, thanks to a trade that sent him to the Celtics. For a team looking to retool its frontcourt depth, Boston may have found a gem in the British big man.
Amari Williams brings a unique blend of size, skill, and experience. At 7 feet tall with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, he’s a physical presence in the paint. But what sets him apart is his versatility. During his lone season at Kentucky, Williams averaged 10.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. He wasn’t just a rim protector—he was a facilitator, often initiating offense from the high post and showcasing impressive court vision for a player his size.
Before transferring to Kentucky, Williams spent four seasons at Drexel, where he earned CAA Defensive Player of the Year honors three times. His ability to anchor a defense and control the glass made him a standout at the mid-major level, and he carried that impact into the SEC. One of his most memorable performances came in a February matchup against Ole Miss, where he recorded a rare triple-double—only the fourth in Kentucky’s storied history.
The Celtics’ decision to trade down from the 32nd pick and acquire Williams at 46, along with additional future assets, reflects a strategic approach by Boston’s front office. With veteran bigs like Al Horford and Luke Kornet facing uncertain futures, Williams offers a cost-effective, high-upside option who could contribute sooner than expected. His maturity—he’s 23 years old—and five years of college experience make him more NBA-ready than many of his rookie peers.
Boston’s front office has praised Williams’ passing instincts and rebounding tenacity. Vice President of Basketball Operations Mike Zarren described him as “one of the best passing big men in college for a long time,” highlighting his potential to fit into Boston’s ball-movement-heavy system. His ability to find cutters and shooters from the post could be a valuable asset, especially with the Celtics’ emphasis on spacing and perimeter play.
While Williams isn’t known for his scoring touch beyond the paint, his efficiency around the rim and willingness to make
