Robert Williams III Bio
Robert Lee Williams III is an American professional basketball player for the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Texas A&M Aggies. Nicknamed “Time Lord,” Williams was drafted 27th overall in the 2018 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics. He had a breakout season in 2021–22, which saw him being named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team and reaching the NBA Finals as the Celtics’ starting center.
Early Life and Background
Robert Lee Williams III was born on October 17, 1997, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He attended North Caddo High School in Vivian, Louisiana, where he developed his skills in basketball. Williams was a consensus four-star recruit and ranked 50th overall in ESPN’s Top 100 for the class of 2016. He was the number one prospect in the state of Louisiana, which led him to commit to Texas A&M University to play college basketball.
Path to Basketball
At Texas A&M, Williams made an immediate impact. In his first college game, he scored five points and recorded five blocks and seven rebounds. He was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and earned Second-Team All-SEC honors after averaging 11.9 points and a team-high 8.2 rebounds per game as a freshman in 2016–17. After a successful college career, he declared for the 2018 NBA draft, where he was selected by the Boston Celtics.
Robert Williams III Career
Early Career (2018–2021)
Robert Williams III began his professional career with the Boston Celtics after being drafted in 2018. He signed with the team on July 5, 2018. Initially, he struggled to make a good impression, facing criticism for tardiness and missing team functions. His reputation for missing flights and meetings led to him earning the nickname “Time Lord” among fans. Williams made his professional debut on October 23, 2018, and began splitting his time between the NBA and the G League with the Maine Red Claws.
Breakthrough (2021–2022)
Williams had a significant breakthrough during the 2021–22 NBA season. He recorded his first career triple-double on December 31, 2021, with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win against the Phoenix Suns. His performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2022, solidifying his reputation as a top defensive player in the league. He played a crucial role in leading the Celtics to the NBA Finals that season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Williams’ signature work includes his defensive prowess, which has earned him multiple accolades. He was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2022 and was a two-time SEC Defensive Player of the Year during his college career.
Robert Williams III Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Robert Williams III has received several nominations and accolades, particularly for his defensive skills and contributions to his teams.
Robert Williams III Awards Won
Robert Williams III has won notable awards, including the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2022 and two SEC Defensive Player of the Year awards in 2017 and 2018.
Robert Williams III Family
Robert Williams III has two children, a daughter and a son. Details about his family background are not publicly available.
Personal Life
In July 2018, it was revealed that Williams had popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) in both legs, a condition that could require surgical intervention if it worsens. Despite this health challenge, Williams has continued to perform at a high level in the NBA.
