Jan. 27, 2026, 12:42 p.m. ET
Amari Williams has made 11 appearances since being drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 46th overall pick in 2025. The English-born big man has spent most of the season developing his game with the Maine Celtics in the G League. However, due to recent injuries and illnesses at the center position, Williams has been afforded some additional opportunities.
On Monday, Jan. 26, Williams received a career-high 25 minutes of playing time, as the Celtics secured a 102-94 win over the Portland Trail Blazers. He ended the game with 9 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks. Solid work for a rookie who was drafted for his long-term upside.
When speaking to the media after the game, reigning Sixth Man of the Year Payton Pritchard was full of praise for the rookie big man.
“He did great,” Pritchard said. “His rebounding, boxing out, protecting the rim, you know, we got to use Amari (Williams) more for his passing ability, because he can really pass. We will have to learn on the fly, but it should be quick. He reads the game really well, so it’ll be fun playing with him.”
Joe Mazzulla was also impressed by Williams, especially as he faced two talented bigs in Robert Williams and Donovan Clingan.
“Just a good matchup, going for the length that they have on their bigs, (Donovan) Clingan and Rob (Williams III), and then, you know, his (Amari Williams’) ability to screen,” Mazzulla said. “They just do such a good job of the ball pressure, and the pickup points, and so having another guy out there that can create separation for our guards, I thought he did a good job on both ends of the floor.”
As a rookie fighting for long-term minutes within Mazzulla’s rotation, Williams needs nights where he can make an impact with sizable minutes. If the recent rumors are true, Boston is on the lookout to add another talent at the five spot. So, maximizing his opportunities is the best chance Williams has of earning a full-scale contract in the future.
For now, though, the rookie big man can be happy with the work he did on Monday. Clearly, his head coach and some of his teammates were impressed, and that’s a perfect start.
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