By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Maccabi Rishon LeZion announced the departure of Johnathan Williams on Monday noting that the 24-year-old American forward received an attracting offer from the NBA. The Washington Wizards are expected to ink him to a guaranteed deal, according to Moshe Barda of One.co.il.
Despite missing the cut in the 2018 NBA draft, the former Missouri and Gonzaga player competed in 24 NBA matches with the Los Angeles Lakers. Signed on a two-way contract, the effective power forward averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per 2018-19 regular season contest including an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double in losing effort against the Boston Celtics in March.
Following his first professional campaign joined the Houston Rockets for the 2019 Summer League, before moving his talents to Israel. Made his way to 7DAYS EuroCup with Maccabi putting up 11.3 points with 52.5% from two-point range and 7.8 rebounds per game in Europe’s second-tier club competition, but was not enough for a Top 16 berth. He also had 12.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per match in Israel’s Super League.
Williams’ second chance to shine in the NBA is up. European basketball experience adds on his development early in his career and will likely be displayed upon his move back to USA.
Photo Credit: EuroCup