NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Notable late risers in the 2020 class

Mark Williams – Duke

C | 7-foot-0 | 225 lbs | No. 25 overall

Duke’s 2020 recruiting class is ranked as the third-best in the nation and features four five-star prospects. Mark Williams, a true seven-foot big man out of IMG Academy, is the latest to join this esteemed group as he made substantial strides over the last few months to add that final star. With excellent size and superb ability on the defensive end of the floor, Williams seems to be the perfect candidate to slide into big minutes in the frontcourt right away.

Williams is the type of player that can dominate the paint on both ends. He plays above the rim on the offensively and uses his athleticism to defend multiple positions as well. This kind of versatility is incredibly important, especially when tasked with sharing the court with talented scorers and playmakers.

Williams does not need to have the ball in his hands to make an impact and could be on the finishing end of dishes from the likes of Jeremy Roach and Jalen Johnson. He is an engaged offensive threat with his positioning work underneath and he always keeps his hands ready for a pass.

Perhaps most importantly, though, he couples his athleticism and skill with a motor that never quits. He is a relentless rebounder as a result of his hustle and should be a glass-cleaner.

IMG Academy is held in high esteem for its development of future collegiate players and Williams definitely posted some outstanding performances in that uniform. His disruption on the defensive end and outstanding rebounding abilities should translate immediately to Durham next season as he will likely form a tandem with transfer addition Patrick Tape at the center spot.