Williams finished with eight points, seven rebounds, and two assists in 18 minutes as Team GB overwhelmed Switzerland 110-75. The Nottingham-born forward-center shot 4-of-7 from the field, secured two offensive boards, and posted a plus-eight rating in the decisive win.
This appearance marked Williams’ first involvement with the Great Britain senior setup in seven years, after representing the nation at the under-16, under-18, and under-20 levels. He had spent an extended period away from international competition before earning a spot on the senior roster following training camp, just one day before the Switzerland game.
“Making my Great Britain senior debut means a lot to me,” Williams said ahead of the game. “It’s been a long time coming and it’s something I’ve always looked forward to.” He added that reuniting with teammates on home soil was an especially meaningful moment.
Another notable contributor for GB was Tosan Evbuomwan, who also marked his Great Britain senior debut. Evbuomwan dropped 21 points in 25 minutes, adding three rebounds, two assists, and a steal while shooting 6-of-10 from the field and hitting a three-pointer. Joshua Uduje led Great Britain with 24 points, with Williams and Evbuomwan joining Uduje, St. John’s guard Quinn Ellis, and Carl Wheatle as part of the starting lineup as GB opened the international window with a commanding performance.
Williams’ return to international play comes as he continues his ascent in professional basketball. He was selected by the Celtics with the 46th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, initially signing a two-way contract that allowed him to split time between Boston and the Maine Red Claws (the Celtics’ G League affiliate). His performance in his first season reportedly earned the organization’s growing confidence, culminating in a two-year, $2.7 million standard NBA contract in February after a series of encouraging showings at the highest level.
This past offseason, the Celtics shifted his status again, declining a team option before bringing him back on a new two-way contract. The arrangement keeps the 6-foot-11 center firmly within Boston’s developmental system as he continues to develop his game.
Most of Williams’ early progress occurred in the G League, where he established himself as one of the more productive big men. Over 28 games for Maine, he averaged 15.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.7 blocks while shooting an impressive 59.6% from the floor. His stint in the G League helped him gain valuable reps and confidence that translated to opportunities with the Celtics.
The senior international appearance adds another dimension to Williams’ growth arc as he prepares for his second NBA season. After a seven-year gap from international competition, he returned to action for Great Britain and made an immediate impact in a comfortable victory. A strong finish to the international window would further strengthen the momentum he has built over the past year.
Looking ahead, Williams and Great Britain are set to host Slovakia in Newcastle on Sunday, August 30, to close out the current international window before Williams refocuses on Celtics duties in preparation for the upcoming season.
Key numbers from the Switzerland game:
– Williams: 8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists in 18 minutes
– Evbuomwan: 21 points in 25 minutes
– Uduje: 24 points
– GB: 110-75 victory
In summary, Amari Williams’ international debut at the senior level marks a meaningful milestone in his professional journey, illustrating his versatility and readiness to contribute at multiple levels of competition. His blend of size, athleticism, and developing skill set continues to position him as a valuable asset for both his national team and his NBA organization as he pursues a productive second season in Boston.
