Mark Williams is an American professional basketball player known for his elite rim protection, rebounding ability and impressive physical tools. As one of the NBA’s rising young centers, Williams has established himself through his shot-blocking instincts, interior presence and efficient scoring near the basket. Below is his complete biography, including early life, high school career, college career, NBA journey, combined statistical table, family details, net worth, social media and more.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Mark Oluwafemi Williams
- Date of Birth: December 16, 2001
- Age: 23 (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: NBA Basketball Player (Center)
- Current Team: Charlotte Hornets
- Height: 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
- Weight: 242 lbs (110 kg)
- Wingspan: 7 ft 7 in (2.31 m)
- Standing Reach: 9 ft 8 in
Early Life & Background
Mark Williams was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia in a family deeply rooted in academics and athletics. Growing up alongside two accomplished sisters, including WNBA player Elizabeth Williams, he was surrounded by strong influences that shaped his athletic discipline.
Williams showed exceptional height and coordination from a young age, standing out on youth teams due to his defensive awareness and natural timing as a shot-blocker. His family encouraged him to balance schoolwork and basketball, helping him develop into a well-rounded and grounded student-athlete.
High School Career
Williams began at Norfolk Academy, where his dominance in the paint made him one of the top prospects in Virginia. He later transferred to IMG Academy, a top national basketball program, where he completed his high school development.
At IMG, he rose to national recognition, earning a 5-star rating and ranking among the top centers in the 2020 recruiting class. His performances in national showcases and tournaments confirmed his status as an elite defensive prospect.
College Career (Duke University)
Williams committed to Duke University, where he played two seasons under Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski. After a developmental freshman year, he emerged as one of the nation’s best defensive players during his sophomore season.
In 2022, he was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and played a major role in Duke’s run to the Final Four. His shot-blocking, rebounding dominance and offensive efficiency made him a first-round NBA prospect.
NBA Career
Williams was selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets. His size, wingspan and timing immediately translated to the professional level, earning him a role as one of the team’s core young players.
As an NBA center, Williams has shown strong defensive instincts, excellent rebounding and high efficiency as a lob finisher and putback scorer. Though early injuries slowed parts of his development, he remains one of the most promising big men in his class.
Career Statistics (High School, College & NBA Combined)
| Level | Season | Team / School | GP | PPG | RPG | BPG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High School | 2018–19 | Norfolk Academy | — | 18.1 | 11.3 | 3.7 | 64% |
| High School | 2019–20 | IMG Academy | — | 20.0 | 11.0 | 4.0 | 68% |
| College | 2020–21 | Duke University | 23 | 7.1 | 4.5 | 1.4 | 66% |
| College | 2021–22 | Duke University | 39 | 11.2 | 7.4 | 2.8 | 72% |
| NBA | 2022–23 | Charlotte Hornets | 43 | 9.0 | 7.1 | 1.0 | 63% |
| NBA | 2023–24 | Charlotte Hornets | 19 | 12.1 | 9.7 | 1.5 | 64% |
| NBA | 2024–25 | Charlotte Hornets | — | Updating | — | — | — |
Personal Life
Mark Williams is known for his humble personality and strong family values. He credits much of his basketball drive to his sister, Elizabeth, who paved the way as a professional athlete. Off the court, Williams enjoys gaming, training, spending time with family and participating in community outreach events.
Family Members
- Father: Dr. Alex Williams
- Mother: Margaret Williams
- Sister: Elizabeth Williams (WNBA, Olympian)
- Sister: Victoria Williams
Relationship
Mark Williams has kept his relationship status private and has not publicly confirmed any dating or marital details. He is currently focused on his NBA career and continued development.
Net Worth
Williams has an estimated net worth of $4–6 million, primarily from his NBA rookie contract and endorsement partnerships. As he progresses in the league, his earnings are expected to increase significantly.
Social Media
- Instagram: @markwilliams_5
- Twitter/X: @MarkWi1liams
- TikTok: Not officially active
Latest Updates
- Continuing to evolve as a defensive anchor for the Hornets.
- Focusing on expanding his offensive skill set.
- Participating in youth development camps and charity events.
- Featured regularly in Hornets media coverage and development reports.
Playing Style
Williams excels as a rim protector with elite verticality and timing. Offensively, he thrives as a lob finisher, dunker spot scorer and offensive rebound threat. His combination of length, mobility and discipline makes him a modern defensive-minded NBA center capable of anchoring a team’s paint defense.
Trivia
- Possesses a rare 7’7″ wingspan.
- Won ACC Defensive Player of the Year at Duke.
- Younger brother of WNBA star Elizabeth Williams.
- Ranked as a 5-star high school recruit.
FAQs
What is Mark Williams known for?
Outstanding shot-blocking, rim protection and efficiency near the basket.
Where did he play college basketball?
At Duke University.
What team drafted him?
The Charlotte Hornets selected him 15th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.
What is his wingspan?
A remarkable 7 feet 7 inches.
