Charles Linwood Williams, known as Buck Williams, was born on August 3, 1960, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. From a young age, he showed promise in basketball and went on to attend the University of Maryland in 1979. During his time at Maryland, Williams made a significant impact, winning the ACC's Rookie of the Year award and earning a spot on the 1980 U.S. Olympic basketball team.
After his success at the collegiate level, Buck Williams entered the NBA Draft in 1981 and was selected as the third overall pick by the New Jersey Nets. Williams quickly made a name for himself in the league, known for his physical style of play and dominant rebounding abilities. He played for the Nets for eight seasons, becoming a fan favorite and earning a reputation as one of the best power forwards in the game.
In 1989, Williams was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to excel on the court. Known for his signature goggles, Buck Williams became a beloved figure in Portland, earning three All-Star selections and four All-NBA defensive team honors during his time with the team. He also won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his first season with the Nets.
Throughout his nearly two decades in the NBA, Buck Williams was known for his consistency, durability, and work ethic. He was a reliable double-double machine and a fearless competitor, never backing down from a challenge on the court.
After retiring from professional basketball, Buck Williams remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. In 2010, he joined the Portland Trail Blazers as an assistant coach under Nate McMillan, further cementing his legacy with the team.
Off the court, Williams has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, using his platform to give back to his community and support causes he believes in. His dedication to the game of basketball and his commitment to making a positive impact have made him a respected figure both on and off the court.
Buck Williams will always be remembered as a standout player in the NBA, known for his tenacity, skill, and dedication to the game. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness both on and off the court.