BOSTON BOUND! Kentucky’s Amari Williams Drafted 46th Overall, Traded to the Celtics

BOSTON BOUND! Kentucky’s Amari Williams Drafted 46th Overall, Traded to the Celtics 💚🏀

Another Wildcat is officially headed to the NBA and to one of the most iconic franchises in basketball history.

With the 46th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic selected Amari Williams, the standout big man from the University of Kentucky. But his NBA journey is starting somewhere else entirely the pick was traded shortly after to the Boston Celtics, a team with championship aspirations and a rich tradition of excellence.

For Amari Williams, it’s a dream scenario: the chance to develop in a winning culture, surrounded by stars, and to potentially carve out a critical role on one of the league’s deepest rosters.

From Lexington to the League 💙➡️☘️

Williams, a 6’10” force in the paint, was known throughout the 2024–25 season for his rim protection, hustle, and rebounding dominance. Transferring into Kentucky for one season, Williams made an immediate impact with his size, shot-blocking ability, and defensive leadership qualities that NBA teams covet, especially in a high-pressure postseason environment.

He finished the year averaging double-digit rebounds, nearly two blocks per game, and was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best post presence. His motor and toughness caught the attention of scouts throughout the season and his pre-draft workouts only raised his stock further.

A Perfect Fit in Boston

The Boston Celtics, already one of the most loaded rosters in the NBA, clearly see value in Williams’ upside. With veterans like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porziņģis leading the way, Williams won’t be thrown into the fire too early. Instead, he’ll have the opportunity to learn from some of the league’s best while contributing right away as a backup big.

With Boston’s emphasis on defense, hustle, and physicality, this landing spot couldn’t be more ideal. The Celtics are looking to extend their championship window, and a player like Williams can help them do just that especially in minutes where rim protection and energy off the bench are needed.

Another Wildcat Makes the Leap 🐾

For Big Blue Nation, the 2025 NBA Draft continues to be a source of pride. Amari Williams becomes the latest Kentucky product to reach the NBA, joining fellow Wildcats Koby Brea and others who heard their names called on draft night. It’s a testament to Kentucky’s continued reputation as a launching pad for NBA talent especially under the new regime of Coach Mark Pope.

Williams’ story isn’t just one of physical talent it’s about perseverance, development, and maximizing opportunity. Now, he’s got the chance to do it on basketball’s biggest stage.

Get ready, Celtics fans  Amari Williams is bringing that Kentucky grit to Beantown.
And for the NBA? You’ve been warned.