Why Doesn’t Amari Williams Dunk the Ball More? Mark Pope Says the Answer Lies in Slowing Down
When a 7-footer like Amari Williams steps on the hardwood, you expect to see rim-rattling dunks, chasedown blocks, and dominating post play. And to be fair, the Kentucky big man delivers on much of that promise. His athleticism is undeniable, his presence in the paint is imposing, and his versatility makes him one of the most unique players in college basketball. So why doesn’t he dunk more?
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope offered a surprising answer: it’s not about lack of power or athletic ability—it’s about tempo.
“One of the things that happens to Amari is he just sometimes gets a little sped up,” Pope said. “The one thing he would like to do is just slow down a little bit once he gets to the rim, kind of get his feet under him.”
It’s a nuanced observation, and one that reveals how much more complex the game is at this level—especially for a player like Williams, who’s being asked to do it all.
A Unique Skill Set in a Seven-Footer
Williams isn’t your traditional back-to-the-basket center. Since transferring from Drexel, he’s been thrust into a pivotal role at Kentucky, operating as a do-it-all big in Pope’s up-tempo system. In the Wildcats’ recent game against Illinois, he put up one of the most complete stat lines of the season: 10 rebounds, six assists, three blocks, one steal, and just one turnover. That’s not a typo. A 7-footer posted six assists while leading the break and initiating offense.
“He’s leading the break with us. He’s leading transition,” Pope said. “He’s under a tremendous amount of pressure from us to be a playmaker.”
That kind of responsibility is rare for a big man. Williams isn’t just anchoring the defense—he’s often starting the offense. That dual role requires an immense amount of decision-making on the fly, and it’s part of why Pope believes Williams occasionally rushes through plays at the rim instead of finishing with a dunk.
The Illinois Play That Dropped Jaws
Pope pointed to a specific moment from the Illinois game that captures Williams’ incredible athleticism—and his potential to be a truly elite player.
“You see a seven-footer race on a close out, jump up in the air, block a three-point shot, collect the rebound, race down and dunk it on the other end. You don’t see guys his size make that play ever.”
It’s the kind of play you expect from a guard or a wing—maybe even an NBA-level forward. But for a 7-footer to do all of that in one sequence? That’s once-in-a-generation stuff. And Pope knows it.
“We’re getting to watch a once-in-a-generation guy,” he said. “Just unbelievable. So proud of him right now.”
The Dunk Dilemma
So why the lack of flashy finishes? For fans expecting more rim-shaking dunks, Pope’s explanation makes perfect sense when you understand the context. Williams is often moving at high speed, reading defenses, and trying to stay one step ahead of the opponent. By the time he gets to the rim, his momentum might be working against him, causing him to rush the finish or opt for a softer touch instead of a throwdown.
It’s not a matter of ability—it’s a matter of control.
“He’s playing so hard, playing so aggressive, playing with so much emotion, and just him in those moments, being able to slow down a little bit is going to be the key for him.”
It’s also a testament to Williams’ mentality. He’s not trying to pad highlight reels—he’s trying to make the right play every time. And that’s something coaches value immensely.
A Star in the Making
For Kentucky fans, Amari Williams is the kind of player that represents the next evolution of the modern big man. He can defend, pass, run the floor, and make plays most guys his size wouldn’t even attempt. As he continues to develop, the flashes of brilliance will become more consistent, and those missed dunks may start turning into powerful finishes.
And when that happens?
Look out.
Because a controlled, composed, and confident Amari Williams is a problem for any opponent in the country.
Final Thoughts
Amari Williams might not be dunking as much as some expect—but that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s a sign of just how much he’s being asked to do, and how well he’s doing it. Mark Pope’s vision for Williams goes far beyond the highlight plays. He sees a leader, a playmaker, and a future pro who’s still learning how to put it all together.
“He’s playing elite, elite-level basketball,” Pope said.
And with March Madness in full swing, that’s exactly what Big Blue Nation wants to hear.
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