Jay Williams Says He's Ready to Play
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Jay Williams says he's ready to return to the NBA after a three year recovery from a motorcycle crash.
Williams, the former No. 2 NBA draft pick, is in Toronto working out for the Toronto Raptors.
"The thing I like about Toronto is the winning atmosphere," said Williams. "Guys want to win, guys want to be great players, and you can't say that about every franchise. They're definitely on the right path there to getting better."
"I love the style (Colangelo) brings to the team," he added. "We worked a lot pushing the ball, he wants to play that kind of fast tempo. And you've guys like Chris Bosh on your wing and Mo Pete can stretch out the defense, and (Charlie) Villanueva can shoot the ball, the possibilities are exciting."
In June 2003, Williams crashed his motorcycle into a pole, fracturing his pelvis, tearing knee ligaments, and damaging nerves in his left leg. He has not played in the NBA since.
The Chicago Bulls, who drafted Williams, honored one year of his contract even though he violated a standard clause. They waived him in February of 2004 after reaching a settlement of reportedly $3 million.
Jim Kelly, the Raptors' director of player personnel, said while Williams is "very fit," it remains to be seen whether he's ready to return to the NBA.
"He's pressing for that, but to be honest, we haven't seen him in a full-court game," said Kelly.
Williams insists he's ready to play.
Source
Date
Thu 06/01/06, 4:27 pm EST
