In a night filled with emotion, excitement, and dreams fulfilled, former Drexel standout Amari Williams heard the words every young basketball player longs for: “With the 46th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics select Amari Williams.” And just like that, the 6-foot-10 British-born big man took a giant leap into the spotlight, joining one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. The Celtics, coming off another deep postseason run, are adding a player defined by raw potential, defensive dominance, and a relentless motor.
For Williams, the journey to this moment has been anything but traditional. Born in Nottingham, England, Amari didn’t take the same path many NBA hopefuls follow. He wasn’t a household name coming out of high school, nor was he recruited by powerhouse programs. Instead, he made his name at Drexel University in Philadelphia, far from the blue-blood limelight. At Drexel, Williams blossomed into a force on both ends of the court, dominating in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and earning recognition as one of the most impactful defenders in the country.
During his collegiate career, Williams became a three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year—a rare feat that immediately placed him on NBA radars. He averaged 12.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game during his final season, showcasing an evolving offensive game and a tenacious presence in the paint. While some doubted the level of competition he faced in a mid-major conference, Williams consistently proved he belonged in any conversation about elite interior defenders in college basketball.
The Celtics, led by their savvy front office and commitment to finding diamonds in the rough, saw in Williams the perfect developmental piece. In a league increasingly valuing switchable, rim-protecting bigs who can run the floor and hold their own on the perimeter, Williams checks every box. He may not be a finished product offensively, but his defensive instincts, wingspan, timing, and rebounding tenacity give him the kind of floor that NBA coaches love. For Boston, a team already rich with star talent, Williams is an investment in the future and a potential role-player who could make an impact sooner than many expect.
The Celtics have long prided themselves on a culture of hard work, defense, and team-oriented basketball. Williams fits that mold perfectly. He’s not flashy; he’s effective. He doesn’t need to score 20 a night to make his presence felt. Instead, he alters shots, battles for boards, and sets tough screens. In short, he does the dirty work—the kind that doesn’t always make headlines but wins games.
Reactions across the basketball world poured in as news of Williams’ selection broke. Drexel’s program, one that rarely sees players drafted to the NBA, erupted in celebration. Teammates, coaches, and alumni all took to social media to share their pride in Amari’s journey. For a program often overshadowed by bigger schools in Philadelphia like Villanova or Temple, this moment is massive. It validates the hard work of the staff, the talent development that took place over the years, and most importantly, the belief that no matter where you start, greatness is still within reach.
Amari’s personal story is equally compelling. Growing up in England, he was first drawn to soccer before falling in love with basketball. His family supported his transition to the U.S., where he attended Myerscough College Basketball Academy and later found his way into the American high school and AAU circuit. His path wasn’t filled with ESPN highlights or national exposure, but it was built on discipline, resilience, and an unshakable work ethic.
As the NBA Draft moved into its second round, many eyes were still on big-name prospects and one-and-done phenoms. But when Williams’ name was announced, analysts quickly turned their attention to his upside. ESPN’s draft panel praised Boston for the selection, calling Williams “one of the best defensive bigs in the class.” Others noted that while his offensive game is still developing, his defensive impact could be immediate, especially on a team that prides itself on that end of the floor.
Celtics Head Coach Joe Mazzulla is expected to get the most out of Williams. With a roster that includes Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porziņģis, the Celtics are already contenders. But they’ve shown a commitment to building depth and developing young talent. Williams likely won’t be thrust into a starting role right away, but Boston’s track record with young bigs—particularly players with defensive instincts—should bode well for his growth.
For Williams, the dream of playing in the NBA has always been a motivating force. After declaring for the draft and participating in team workouts, he impressed scouts with his footwork, shot-blocking, and improved mid-range shooting. While he wasn’t projected to go in the first round, he climbed draft boards steadily in the months leading up to the event. His performance in pre-draft workouts reportedly drew interest from multiple teams, but Boston made the move that ultimately paired him with one of the league’s best-run organizations.
Back in the UK, his selection made headlines across British media, with many calling it a landmark moment for basketball in the country. Williams becomes one of the few British players in the NBA, and his success could inspire a new generation of hoopers from the UK to pursue their dreams. British basketball has long fought for visibility and resources, and having a player from Nottingham drafted to the NBA is a significant cultural moment.
As the confetti settles from draft night, Williams will now turn his focus to Summer League, where he’ll have a chance to showcase his skills in a Celtics jersey for the first time. Boston fans, known for their passion and knowledge of the game, will be watching closely. While second-round picks often face an uphill battle to carve out a roster spot, Williams enters the league with the kind of determination and humility that makes it easy to root for him.
His goal now will be to earn his place, improve his offensive repertoire, and prove he can contribute on the highest level. From rim protection to high-energy plays off the bench, there’s a path for him to become a valuable contributor—especially in a league that rewards effort and versatility on the defensive end.
Williams’ draft night wasn’t filled with the same fanfare or fashion statements as the lottery picks, but his smile told the whole story. It was a look of gratitude, of belief, and of pride for the long, winding road that brought him to the NBA. For Drexel, for the UK, and for all the overlooked prospects chasing a dream, Amari Williams’ story is more than just a draft pick—it’s a blueprint.
As the Boston Celtics continue to build for both the present and future, adding a player like Amari Williams is a clear sign that they’re committed to substance over flash, development over hype, and heart over headlines. If his past is any indication, Williams will take this opportunity and run with it—blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and slowly but surely proving that pick 46 might just be one of the best steals in the draft.
Congratulations, Amari Williams. The journey is just beginning—and it’s heading straight to the bright lights of Boston.
