As the NBA season approaches its final stages, roster changes have settled and routines become familiar, Cody Williams is establishing himself as a vital contributor for the Utah Jazz. The second-year forward’s gradual growth and increasing impact on the court reflect the Jazz’s confidence in his potential, especially as the team looks ahead to 2026 and beyond. Head coach Will Hardy has been relying more on Williams, recognizing the array of skills he brings to the floor in crucial moments.
Pre-Game Rituals Highlight Williams’ Unique Approach
About an hour before a game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Williams was found in the visitors’ locker room wearing headphones, selecting music suited for the team’s Gospel Night theme. His pregame soundtrack rituals are fluid and never exactly the same each time. Williams explained this variability:
“I can’t do the same thing before every game, I’ve got to switch it up.”
Unlike fellow teammate Jaren Jackson Jr., who holds the unofficial role of locker room DJ, Williams does not take charge of the music selection, especially while Jackson recovers from knee surgery. He jokingly admitted:
“I don’t have anything for (Jaren Jackson Jr.) right now. I don’t have the clout to run the music, so I just sit here and listen to it. Mostly have my headphones on before the game, really.”
The type of music he listens to varies widely depending on his mood. Williams shared the diversity of his playlist:
“Before certain games, I’ll throw on some R&B and chill, some old school Anthony Hamilton, some gospel like Kirk Franklin. It really does depend on the mood and what kind of day it is. Like, however I’m feeling before that game, that’s what I’ll play. Sometimes I’m throwing on Nirvana, Green Day, and a bunch of those bands.”
This eclectic taste originates from early influences, including his mother’s fondness for soul music, which shaped his broad appreciation for diverse sounds.
“My music is very diverse, shout out to my mom. She listened to a lot of that old soul stuff.”
Balancing Focus and Team Dynamics on Game Day
While Williams values his music, he removes his headphones during shootarounds to fully engage with coaches and teammates. His approachable and easygoing personality makes him a reliable presence in the locker room, offering support and morale boosts. This balance between personal preparation and team interaction highlights his growth both on and off the court.
Williams’ rise has not gone unnoticed by the Jazz front office, where anticipation for a significant leap in his development next season is growing. Amid the league’s strong association with rap and hip-hop, Williams is also exploring contemporary artists, such as LUCKI, who has become his favorite new rapper:
“LUCKI is my go-to new artist for sure. I’m getting into his catalogue, listening to that when I need some new rap.”
Brotherhood and Guidance with Jalen Williams
Cody’s support network extends well beyond music. Central to his journey is his older brother Jalen, an NBA All-Star with the Oklahoma City Thunder and recent NBA champion. Jalen has been a mentor and motivator, guiding Cody’s path through professional basketball while also serving as a friendly competitor in training and defense drills.
“Big shout out to my brother (Jalen). He has been my best wingman and biggest inspiration through this whole thing. I definitely wouldn’t have made this kind of journey without him. He is a good punching bag. I beat up on him a lot, but he gives me tips on defense.”
Jalen’s progression from a relatively unknown college player at Santa Clara to an NBA lottery pick and champion provides a blueprint that Cody aims to follow as he too carves out his place in the league.
Williams’ Recent Performance Signals Growing Confidence
Since scoring 18 points on New Year’s Day, Williams has consistently contributed to the Jazz with averages of 8.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.7 steals/blocks per game while shooting efficiently at 52.5 percent from the field. This increase in productivity illustrates how he is settling into his role and understanding how to leverage his strengths.
“I think I’m getting a real good idea on how I affect the team overall, and how I can be effective on the court. It’s just playing to my strengths and weaknesses, especially on the defensive end. Then it’s putting a lot of pressure on the rim offensively. That’s how I can play to my niche and help the team. I feel like understanding my game more as the season has gone on is why I’ve been able to play better.”
Despite his growing comfort, Williams remains excited before every game, maintaining a youthful enthusiasm and love for basketball that keeps his focus sharp.
“I still get butterflies before the game. I’m just excited to be out there, to have this opportunity to live a dream. I don’t know if that feeling will ever go away, just because I genuinely love what I do. I don’t even call this a job because this still feels like a dream. I still feel like a little kid every time that jump ball. Everything about it is just exciting.”
Future Prospects for Williams and the Jazz Organization
The Utah Jazz are currently engaged in a deliberate rebuild, emphasizing the development of young players like Cody Williams. His enthusiasm, combined with steady improvement, makes him a promising cornerstone for the franchise’s future. If his recent performance trajectory continues, Williams is poised to play an increasingly important role as the Jazz build toward a more competitive roster in the coming years.
In a league often dominated by flashy stars, Williams’ down-to-earth demeanor and dedication offer a steady foundation. His evolving game and evolving mindset, aided by relationships both on his team and within his family, suggest a bright future as he harnesses both his talent and passion to help the Utah Jazz thrive.
