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Tennessee fans are currently waiting in suspense, counting down the hours to Saturday. The Vols’ star power forward Grant Williams is set announce his final NBA decision this weekend after speaking with teams this week at the combine. If Williams likes what he hears, he can stay in and turn pro. If not, Williams can return to Tennessee for one more run at a title.
In SBNation’s latest projection on Wednesday morning, Williams landed with the San Antonio Spurs at 19.
19. San Antonio Spurs - Grant Williams, F, Tennessee
Williams won SEC Player of the Year as a sophomore, and somehow raised his game to new levels this past season as a junior. Williams spearheaded Tennessee’s basketball rival as a 6’7 bully who outmuscled opponents in the paint and on the glass but could also hit a face-up jump shot. Williams’ best attribute might be his feel for the game, which helps him contribute to winning basketball even without a signature skill. He’s going to have a good NBA career.
If Williams is hearing a similar projection from the NBA, it’s tough to imagine him returning to Knoxville.
Grant could come back and make a run at becoming a three-time SEC player of the year, which would put him alongside of Bernard King and Pete Maravich. He could also finish out his career with Lamonte Turner and Jordan Bowden — and possibly Jordan Bone if he returns.
But more than likely, his NBA stock can’t get too much higher than it already is. Williams added a consistent mid-range game, along with a budding long range stroke that could allow him to play a versatile offensive game at the next level.
At UIC this evening watching Tennessee star Grant Williams work out. One of the most productive players in the country (31.2 PER) and still doesn’t turn 21 until Nov 30. Shooting the ball at a high level from NBA 3. pic.twitter.com/KgVhiPYxUB
— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) May 14, 2019
For what it’s worth, ESPN has Williams slotted in at No. 23 to the Utah Jazz. He seems to have solidified a range between picks 19-30, so it’s now up to him to decide what’s next.
We’ll all find out together on Saturday.