When Kam Williams transferred from Tulane to Kentucky in March, his decision didn’t cause major waves in the Bluegrass. But those closely watching college basketball saw the potential—and so did NBA scouts.
Now, before even playing a game for the Wildcats, the 6-foot-8 wing is already being projected as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by NBADraft.net. It’s a rapid rise, but one that aligns with Kentucky’s long-standing reputation as a launchpad to the pros.
“They’ve sent the most guys to the league,” Williams said. “Their culture, their coaching—it’s all going to help me get to where I want to be. My goal is the NBA.”
Williams averaged 9.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game as a freshman at Tulane, shooting 48.5% from the field, 41.2% from deep, and 76% from the free-throw line. Despite those solid numbers, he knows he has room to grow.
I haven’t perfected anything, he said. Shooting, defense, IQ—everything can improve.
His motivation is backed by strong support at home, especially from his father, Greg Williams Sr., who’s already becoming a favorite among Big Blue Nation with his social media presence.
Everybody loves him. He’s dancing on TikTok, reposting tweets—just connecting with the fans, Williams laughed. I’m glad he’s building that bond.
Asked about the BBN culture, Williams admitted he was caught off guard by the passion.
When I committed, people were tagging me nonstop. It just showed how much they care, he said.
On Coach Mark Pope, he noted: I didn’t know much at first, but he’s relaxed, he loves his players, and he wants us to succeed.
Williams’ strength is his shooting, a skill honed from a young age under his father’s careful guidance. He made me stay in the paint when I was younger. As I got stronger, he let me move back. Now I shoot faster and hold my follow-through longer.
He trains daily and shrugs off doubters. I’m not worried about the noise. I know what I can do. I stay humble and confident.
Getting used to Pope’s system has required quick learning. You’ve got to pick things up fast or you’ll fall behind. You’ve got to be a student of the game.
He’s also excited about teaming with Arizona State transfer Jayden Quaintance and believes defense will be a team strength. “We can switch one through five. You’re not driving by Otega or Mo—those guys are brick walls.”
The jump from the American Athletic Conference to the SEC doesn’t intimidate him. It’s about adapting—finding new angles, getting stronger, getting faster.
Kam Williams came to Kentucky for a purpose—and if early signs hold, he may be the next in a long line of Wildcats to realize his NBA dreams.
