In an exclusive interview with Overtime Heroics Senior Editor Reggie Roberts, retired NBA sharpshooter Walt “The Wizard” Williams shared his insights on potential sleeper teams for the upcoming NBA playoffs. Among the teams discussed, Williams spoke about the Minnesota Timberwolves as a formidable contender poised to surprise many in the postseason.
Williams also addressed Minnesota’s unexpected rise to prominence in the Western Conference standings. Minnesota is currently tied for first place with the Denver Nuggets with only four games remaining in the regular season. He attributed their success to a combination of stout defensive play and remarkable depth on the bench and suggested that the Timberwolves possess the versatility to challenge any opponent.
The conversation took a turn as Williams singled out the Timberwolves as potentially the most dangerous team in the playoffs due to their multifaceted approach to the game. He noted their ability to secure victories through various means that makes them a threat to traditional powerhouses.
Here’s the full conversation:
Reggie Robers from Overtime Heroics: “More often than not, there seemingly is an NBA “sleeper team” lurking in the shadows that could make some noise during the upcoming NBA playoffs. Who is that team?”
Walt Williams: “Minnesota. Not sure anyone saw them being tied for first place in West win Denver with four games remaining in the regular season, but that’s where they are. They’ve done it with good defense and they have amazing depth on their bench. Without question, Minnesota just might be the most dangerous team in the NBA playoffs because they can beat you in so many ways.”
As the NBA playoffs draw near, all eyes will be on the Minnesota Timberwolves, as they aim to translate their regular-season success into a deep postseason run.
Walt Williams NBA Career: Overview
Walt Williams was a sharpshooting small forward/guard who played for 11 seasons in the NBA. He played for the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks throughout his career.
Drafted by the Sacramento Kings with the 7th overall pick in 1992, he was even named to the 1992-1993 NBA All-Rookie Second Team. An impressive scorer, he averaged double digits in scoring for six out of his eight NBA seasons, totaling 8,385 points in his career. Interestingly, he ranks third in Houston Rockets history with a 3-point percentage of .393.
Currently, Walt Williams works as the sideline reporter for the Terrapin men’s basketball team at his alma mater, the University of Maryland.