Power Point Games
Listed at 6’9’’ 240 lbs Temple’s Junior Forward Craig Williams appears to be a typical college basketball big man. However, despite Williams’ stature his role on the Owls is predominantly as a three-point specialist. A player of his size and build is normally expected to contribute primarily in rebounding, defense, and scoring in the paint, yet Williams spends a great deal of time beyond the three-point line during offensive possessions. 76 of his 88 attempted field goals this season have been three-pointers, an astonishing 86%. His timely shooting incorporating a remarkably quick release has allowed him to shoot a modest 35% from beyond the arc this season (40% last season), which is 2nd amongst Temple players who have at least 20 attempts.
Although Williams is an effective outside shooter, he possesses observable deficits in other aspects of the game. He most noticeably lacks the physicality to match up against opposing forwards on both offense and defense. Coming off the bench for Fran Dunphy’s Temple squad he averages 5 points in just under 15 minutes per game, and grabs just over 2 rebounds, a figure less than desirable for a 6’9’’ forward. Williams can be ineffective and overpowered when on defense indicated by an inability to use his size in order to contain opponents in the low post. He also struggles to score points in the paint and at times looks indecisive when receiving the ball in a non-catch and shoot situation. Overall Craig Williams is a key bench players for the Owls who can provide immediate firepower off the bench, but he wont garner more playing time unless he improves his all-around game.
