Speaking to reporters after Friday’s practice, Boston Celtics rookie center Robert Williams III says he “never took anything from anybody,” referencing Thursday’s allegations from financial advisor Marty Blazer claiming Williams was sent $11,000 in 2017 on behalf of then-Texas A&M head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim and agent Christian Dawkins.
Dawkins has been a major piece in the FBI’s investigation and trial of corruption in the NCAA.
Of course, whether innocent or not, there’s certainly not much else for Williams to say here. It’s unlikely that he would choose to say anything incriminating without the ability to indemnify himself against potential NCAA sanctions (which could come in the form of Williams vacating his two SEC Defensive Player is the Year awards).
Nonetheless, Williams is wise to train his eyes away from the stories on social media and focus on the upcoming series. Obviously, as a rookie, this is Williams’ first taste of playoff action and the experience he’s receiving now will be invaluable in the future, whether he makes significant time or not.
Further, with the injury history of the Celtics’ centers, there’s a chance that Celtics head coach Brad Stevens could turn to Williams, who’s already an exceptional shot-blocker and rebounder.
