Former Arizona Wildcats Star Derrick Williams gets a blessing from the King, LeBron James
By David Rosen
Lebron James expresses his interest in wanting Derrick Williams to stay long-term with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
When the King speaks you listen. After the Cavs had won against the Denver Nuggets Saturday night, Lebron James spoke very highly of Derrick Williams. “We hope that this is a long-term thing. Obviously, we know that he’s on a 10-day contract, but we believe it’s going to be long-term.” Also, he also spoke highly of Williams’s athletic abilities.
What a story this is turning into! From being drafted first round, No. 2 in the 2011 NBA Draft, to playing on five different NBA teams in six seasons, Williams has certainly been through it all. “It feels good man, it feels like I’m was back in college,” said our Wildcat.
Just when it can’t get any crazier, he gets signed to a ten-day contractor with the Cavs after being waived by the Miami Heat. Then he gets the opportunity to play alongside one of the greatest players of all time who wants to mentor the young 25-year old. 6-foot-8 wing. “We hope this is a place we can help him grow — I just want to see him grow every day and it’s a good place for him — he’s learned already without even practicing — we’re lucky to have him,” said the King.
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Oh, I forgot to mention that he also gets to play alongside former Wildcat stars Channing Frye and Richard Jefferson, bonus! “Especially the Arizona guys [reached out], C-Frye, um you know RJ, I played with K-Love before in Minnesota,” said Williams on Friday post-game happy he’s sharing the court with his fellow Wildcats.
We all wonder what’s been missing for Williams. It seems playing on a winning team is what he feels is what is missing. “In general I haven’t been in a good flow since I’ve been in the NBA and a lot of it is with losing — When you come to a team like this every game means something — I think that’s definitly what I’m missing,” Williams explained.
Apparently, Williams chose Cleveland. It seems from his post-game interview that he had other opportunities in the pipe.
The full potential of Williams has certainly not been seen by most people, but in just two games with the Cavs, they have seen it. During his Wildcat career, he provided some memorable highlights that all Arizona Basketball fans certainly remember.
Williams scored 12 points in his first game as a Cavalier, even shooting a three and getting fouled in the process.
Next: Wildcats find a win to against the Bears
Next: Wildcats find a win to against the Bears
Arizona legacy is not short in these types of feel good, never give up stories of late with T.J. McConnell, Scooby Wright III and now Derrick Williams! You got this Williams, Bear Down!