Celtics end Robert Williams' slide with 27th overall pick

With the 27th pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have selected Texas A&M center Robert Williams.

The fact Williams was still on the board for the Celtics at No. 27 was fairly shocking as many publications had the athletic big as a potential lottery pick.

While returning to Texas A&M for a sophomore season raised some eyebrows, Williams further cemented his standing as one of the most explosive big men in college hoops. His numbers, however, were nearly identical year to year, and he finished his collegiate career averaging a respectable 11.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in just 25.7 minutes per game.

With a wingspan approaching 7-foot-6, Williams terrorized opponents around the rim and on the glass to the tune of back-to-back SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Robert Williams bio

Position: PF, C
School: Texas A&M
College Experience: Sophomore
Height: 6-foot-10
Weight: 237 lbs
Wingspan: 7-foot-6
Max vertical: N/A

What the analysts are saying

• "Does a good job of anticipating where missed shots will go and is very good at getting position inside ... Rebounds the ball high in the air, doesn’t just let the ball come to him ... High rebounding rate on both ends of the court (12 percent offensive rebound rate, 23.7 defensive rebound rate for his career) ... Rebounds with two hands and grabs boards both inside and outside of his area." - Eric Yearian, NBADraft.net.

• "While Williams doesn’t have the skill level to be an offensive focal point, he can do more than just catch and dunk. He should thrive in the medium-usage offensive role that NBA teams need from their big men. The NBA is a better fit for his game." - Jonathan Tjarks, The Ringer.