Ziaire Williams has the chance for a new beginning, and although he is still getting accustomed to a different team and city, he is not shying away from the challenge presented by head coach Jordi Fernandez to emerge as a premier defender for the Nets.
“Absolutely,” Williams responded enthusiastically regarding that objective on Thursday during Day 3 of the Nets’ training camp.
The 2021 No. 10 overall pick spent three seasons with the Grizzlies, where he struggled to find his place on the roster before Memphis decided to part ways with him in a move to cut costs.
Ziaire Williams attempts a three-pointer during a recent practice session with the Nets. Corey Sipkin for New York Post
Despite his recent successes, Williams credits his development to the training he received under Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins, particularly emphasizing defensive skills.
“I’m really grateful to Taylor for the foundational principles he imparted to me,” Williams remarked at the HSS Training Center. “Arriving here, I found I was already familiar with much of the instruction, thanks to him. I really appreciate that.” He further acknowledged coach Steve Hetzel, who is primarily focused on defense, stating, “We’ve been studying a lot of film together, and he has offered some valuable insights. There are definitely areas I still need to improve, but the experience has been fantastic. A big shout out to Taylor; he was instrumental in my defensive growth.”
At the age of 23, Williams is among several players working to find their place during the Nets’ rebuilding phase following a 32-50 record last season and the offseason departure of Mikal Bridges to the rival Knicks.
The Nets’ prior rebuilding efforts, spanning from 2016 to 2019, involved nurturing overlooked talent, transforming them into valuable players.
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The 6-foot-9 forward considers one of his greatest strengths to be his ability to create “havoc” on the basketball court.
Defensively, he is eager to challenge anyone from guards to centers, while on the offensive end, he excels in cutting opportunities and finding space on the wing for catch-and-shoot chances.
“A fresh start is beneficial; however, consistency is key because one cannot continually rely on new beginnings,” Fernandez remarked on Tuesday, discussing both Williams and fifth-year guard Killian Hayes. “You can’t just say, ‘I’m done here. I’ll move elsewhere.’ At times, when faced with adversity, it’s wise to recover and reflect, asking yourself, ‘What mistakes can I correct?’”
“You cannot control the circumstances or the actions of others. What you can manage is your own response. While I’m open to a fresh start, I’ll evaluate everyone based on daily observations. It’s not merely about one or two days; it’s about consistently improving over time.”
Williams experienced a glimpse of the Nets’ style on Thursday during a scrimmage that featured significant physicality, a day before the team departs for San Diego to continue their training camp.
“To be honest, I feel like I’m still in the process of adjusting,” Williams shared. “I won’t truly feel settled until we begin playing actual games, but I’m progressing well. Learning the plays and building chemistry with my teammates is becoming increasingly positive. I’m just trusting in my training and the staff every day. As Coach [Fernandez] says, I aim to improve by one percent every day.”
He had limited playing time during the NBA summer league in Las Vegas, averaging only 7.8 minutes over three games and scoring an average of 2.7 points per game.
In the previous season, he boasted a career-high average of 8.2 points per game on 40 percent shooting, supplemented by 3.5 rebounds. However, he struggled with a three-point shooting percentage of just 30.7 over 51 games, before a back injury on March 2 forced him out for the remainder of the season.
If the Nets are pleased with Williams’ development and wish to pursue his growth further, he is eligible for a rookie extension until October 21. He is set to earn $6.1 million in the final year of his rookie contract.
Ziaire Williams Embraces Fresh Start with Nets, Aiming to Shine as a Top Defender
A New Chapter in Brooklyn
Ziaire Williams has officially joined the Brooklyn Nets, marking an exciting new chapter in his professional basketball career. After being drafted in 2021, Williams has demonstrated immense potential but faced challenges along the way. Now, with the Nets, he is poised to refine his skills and establish himself as a formidable defender in the NBA.
The Journey So Far
Williams began his career at Stanford University, where he showcased his athleticism and defensive prowess. His transition to the NBA has been marked by ups and downs, but his work ethic and drive have never wavered.
- Drafted: 2021 NBA Draft, 10th overall by the New Orleans Pelicans, later traded to the Memphis Grizzlies.
- Key Stats: Averaged 9.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists during his time with the Grizzlies.
- Defensive Skills: Known for his agility and ability to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset on the court.
Ziaire’s Defensive Mindset
Williams is committed to becoming a top defender, recognizing that this role is crucial for the Nets’ success. With the league’s increasing emphasis on defensive capabilities, he aims to leverage his natural instincts and physical attributes.
Core Elements of His Defensive Game
– **On-Ball Defense:** Williams is adept at staying in front of his opponents, using his quick feet and long wingspan.
– **Help Defense:** He understands the importance of team defense and is always ready to support teammates in difficult situations.
– **Rebounding:** His ability to grab boards helps initiate fast breaks, exemplifying how defense transitions into offense.
Training Regimen and Skill Development
To elevate his defensive game, Williams has embraced a rigorous training regimen, focusing on both physical conditioning and skill development.
Training Components
- Strength Training: Building muscle to better withstand physical play.
- Agility Drills: Enhancing lateral quickness for improved defensive maneuvers.
- Film Study: Analyzing game footage to learn from top defenders and apply lessons to his own game.
Benefits of a Strong Defensive Presence
Having a player like Ziaire Williams focused on becoming a top defender can bring numerous benefits to the Brooklyn Nets, including:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Team Performance | A strong defense often leads to better overall team performance, contributing to winning games. |
| Enhanced Player Morale | When players see strong defensive efforts, it boosts team morale and encourages a culture of hard work. |
| Transition Opportunities | Good defense leads to steals and fast breaks, creating scoring opportunities on the other end of the court. |
Community and Team Impact
Ziaire Williams understands that basketball goes beyond the court. His commitment to community engagement and teamwork is integral to his identity as a player.
Community Involvement
Williams has expressed a desire to connect with the Brooklyn community. He plans to participate in local events and initiatives, focusing on youth engagement and mentorship.
Case Studies: Players Who Embraced the Defensive Role
Looking at successful defenders in the league can provide insights into how Williams can shape his game.
Notable Defenders
- Marcus Smart: Known for his tenacity and intelligence on defense, Smart won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award.
- Kawhi Leonard: His ability to lock down opponents has made him a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing the impact a strong defender can have on a team.
- Dikembe Mutombo: A legendary shot-blocker, Mutombo’s defensive presence was a game-changer during his career.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Coaches and Players
Williams is fortunate to have access to some of the best minds in basketball. Feedback from coaches and seasoned players can provide him with invaluable perspectives as he develops his game.
Coaching Advice
– **Defensive Positioning:** Coaches emphasize the importance of being in the right place at the right time.
– **Mental Toughness:** Staying focused and resilient during challenging games is essential for a top defender.
– **Communication:** Effective communication with teammates can significantly bolster a team’s defensive efforts.
Looking Ahead: Goals for the Season
As Williams settles into his role with the Nets, he has set clear goals for the upcoming season, focusing on personal growth and team contributions.
- Defensive Metrics: Aiming to average at least 1.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
- Team Contributions: Striving to contribute to the Nets’ overall defensive strategy.
- Personal Development: Continually working on his shooting and offensive skills to become a more well-rounded player.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
With a fresh start in Brooklyn, Ziaire Williams is determined to make his mark as a top defender in the NBA. By embracing the challenges ahead and focusing on his development, he is poised to become a key player for the Nets, contributing to both defense and overall team success. As fans and analysts watch his progress, the anticipation continues to build around what this talented player can achieve in the seasons to come.
