Mark Williams, now playing for the Phoenix Suns, aims to demonstrate to his former team, the Charlotte Hornets, that trading him was a mistake. The young center has made significant strides in his first season with the Suns, participating in 45 games and achieving a personal best for regular-season appearances. “It means a lot,” Williams expressed after a recent morning shootaround. He attributes his success to the support from the Suns’ staff and his own commitment during the summer.
Previously with the Hornets, Williams had a career-high of just 44 games played last season, which reflects a remarkable transformation this year. Currently, he is averaging 12 points per game on a stellar 65.3% shooting percentage, along with eight rebounds in around 24 minutes of play, contributing to the Suns’ unexpectedly strong season with a record of 30-20.
Williams experienced frustration during his three seasons with the Hornets, where he never exceeded 27 wins in a season. “Playing winning basketball, meaningful basketball feels good,” he remarked, clearly enjoying the competitive environment with Phoenix. He has recorded a season-high of 27 points in a game against the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing his potential.
In his initial years with the Hornets, Williams faced significant injuries, which limited his appearances to just 106 games. However, his transition to the Suns has been marked by resilience. The organization traded two first-round picks to acquire him after a previous deal with the Los Angeles Lakers fell through due to a failed physical.
Suns coach Jordan Ott praised Williams, highlighting that their focused approach to his conditioning has paid off. The coaching staff implemented a regimen that specifically targeted improving his lower body strength, preparing him for a longer season. Williams’ commitment to his training is evident; even after missing the entire preseason, he has successfully integrated into the regular-season lineup.
As the season progresses, Williams remains focused on his development and the team’s success as they aim to make a significant impact. His journey from the Hornets to the Suns underscores his determination to prove his worth in the NBA, while also fighting through obstacles to achieve his goals. The Suns and Williams are optimistic about the future, as they continue to build on their current achievements.