2013 NBA Draft Prospect Profile: Rodney Williams, Small Forward, Minnesota


Jesse Johnson-USA Today Sports

Name: Rodney Williams

Age: 21

Height: 6-foot-7

Position: Small Forward

School/Country: Minnesota

Latest Stats: 10.1 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 1.7 apg

 

Rodney Williams is one of two Minnesota Golden Gophers who are hoping to hear their names called within the 2013 NBA Draft. Williams, a 6-foot-7 small forward, enters this year’s field alongside fellow Minnesota senior, Trevor Mbakwe. Williams is widely known for his incredible athleticism, as college basketball fans across the country are well aware from some of the thunderous dunks that he finished during his collegiate career.

Well, given Williams high-flying potential, he enters this year’s draft with the hope of hearing his name called somewhere in the second round. Williams has good size for the small forward position, so if he can find the right up-tempo system in the NBA, he could have the potential to suit up in the NBA next season.

 

Strengths: Williams’ dunk ability and through-the-roof athleticism have carried him onto the radar of NBA scouts. Williams loves to get out and run and he has no trouble attacking the rim in transition. Williams has decent strength already and has drawn some comparisons to Quincy Pondexter in the past.

 

Weaknesses: Williams needs to work more on his offensive game. His athleticism allows him to cover ground and excel in transition, but he needs to emerge more than just an off-the-ball player in the half court. Williams only shot 20.5% from 3-point land this past season and he was even under 60% from the free throw. Williams needs to evolve his offensive game more, so he’s not heavily reliant on his athleticism.

 

Draft Projection: Late Second Round

 

Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS

 


Sign Up
for the

We Recommend

Partner with USA TODAY Sports Digital Properties