UCLA Basketball: Expert Sees Comparisons Between Devin Williams & Current Lakers Big Man

Incoming freshman getting NBA comparisons already

Last year, Adem Bona won the Pac-12 Freshman of the Year for UCLA after averaging seven points and five rebounds. UCLA big men are looking to win the Pac-12 Honor in back-to-back years as another talented power forward is ready to play for the Bruins. 

Devin Williams is a first-year player at UCLA and he is already getting NBA comparisons. 

College basketball insider, Jon Rothstein, says that the Bruins freshman has the play style similar to the Lakers' Jaxson Hayes. 

Impressed with Devin Williams' long-term defensive potential for UCLA. Lanky freshman has great timing around the rim. Reminds me of Jaxson Hayes.

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) July 10, 2023

In high school, Williams was a four star prospect coming out of Centennial in California. Williams' teams lost only four games in three seasons when he was on the court. 

Despite his 6'10 frame, Williams can do everything on the court. As Rothstein stated, he can defend the paint as well as locking up the perimeter. 

Unlike Hayes, Williams can also shoot the three ball. In his On3 scouting report, it was noted how good Williams is from downtown. 

"Williams needs added strength. He has touch that extends beyond the three point line. Will need to continue working on his balance and footwork, figuring out how he scores best in the half court, with continued reps he should continue to develop." (Via On3)

Williams will have an important role with the team as Jaime Jaquez has moved onto the NBA and left a hole at power forward. 

Right now Williams is projected as the teams starting four, but will have to compete with Berke Buyuktuncel for the spot.