Most had assumed it was the case for several weeks. Arkansas coach Eric Musselman finally said it out loud.
“I think he’s been really focused on trying to make the NBA,” Musselman said. “I don’t think there’s anything other than that on his mind. Which is how his mental focus should be. If you declare for the draft, you should be all in and do everything you can to try to position yourself to get drafted as high as you can.”
Musselman would know both as Arkansas’ coach and a former NBA head man. If Williams has had conversations with anyone in Fayetteville about a return, it would have almost certainly been Musselman.
The sophomore declared after a breakout season saw him average 11 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocked shots. His modest shooting ability combined with his 6-foot-10 frame creates potential for just the sort of player that excels in today’s NBA.
Williams is currently in Chicago at the NBA combine. After its conclusion, Arkansas will know whether the future holds J-Will.
“I know he’s really worked hard and been really focused on the NBA stuff, and we’re just hoping he kicks butt. Hope he does well,” Musselman said.