Herb Williams, American basketball player and coach

Herbert L. Williams, born on February 16, 1958, is a highly respected American figure in professional basketball, celebrated for his extensive 18-season playing career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and his subsequent transition into coaching roles within both the NBA and the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

A Storied NBA Playing Career: 1981-1999

Williams embarked on his remarkable journey in the NBA after being selected as the 14th overall pick in the first round of the 1981 NBA draft by the Indiana Pacers, following a successful collegiate career at the University of Georgia. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches, the center quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the court, particularly noted for his defensive prowess, shot-blocking ability, and rebounding. His imposing stature and impact on defense earned him the memorable nickname "Tree".

Over nearly two decades, Williams graced the hardwood for several prominent NBA franchises, showcasing exceptional durability and contributing to various team dynamics. His NBA playing career spanned:

• Indiana Pacers (1981-1989): His formative years where he developed into a reliable starting center.
• Dallas Mavericks (1989-1992): Continuing his strong defensive contributions and veteran leadership.
• New York Knicks (1992-1996 & 1996-1999): Williams enjoyed two distinct stints with the Knicks, playing a crucial role as a veteran big man, especially during their highly competitive and physical era in the 1990s. He was an integral part of the Knicks teams that reached the NBA Finals in 1994 and again in 1999, showcasing his longevity and ability to contribute to championship-contending squads.
• Toronto Raptors (1996): A brief but notable period with the expansion team before returning to New York.

By the time of his retirement in 1999, Herbert Williams had amassed an impressive 1,605 career blocks, ranking him among the NBA's all-time leaders in that category, a testament to his defensive impact throughout his lengthy career.

Transition to Coaching: From NBA Benches to WNBA Sidelines

Following his distinguished playing career, Herbert Williams seamlessly transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of on-court experience and strategic understanding to the sidelines. His coaching journey primarily focused on the New York market, where he had become a beloved figure during his playing days.

New York Knicks: Assistant Coach and Interim Head Coach

Williams served the NBA's New York Knicks in various coaching capacities for over a decade. He was a dedicated assistant coach for significant periods, contributing to player development and game strategy. Notably, he stepped into the demanding role of interim head coach on two separate occasions:

• January 3, 2004 – February 2, 2004: Taking the reins after the dismissal of Don Chaney, guiding the team for a brief period before Lenny Wilkens was appointed.
• April 6, 2005 – April 20, 2005: He again served as interim head coach for the final games of the 2004-2005 season after Lenny Wilkens' departure, providing stability until a new head coach, Larry Brown, was hired for the following season.

His willingness to step up during transitional periods highlighted his commitment to the organization and his deep understanding of the team's dynamics.

New York Liberty: Assistant Coach in the WNBA

Herbert Williams later extended his coaching expertise to the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), joining the New York Liberty as an assistant coach. This role demonstrated his versatility and continued passion for the sport, allowing him to contribute to the growth and development of professional women's basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herbert L. Williams

When was Herbert L. Williams born?

Herbert L. Williams was born on February 16, 1958.

Which teams did Herbert L. Williams play for in the NBA?

He played for the Indiana Pacers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks (two stints), and Toronto Raptors during his 18-season NBA career.

What was Herbert Williams's nickname during his playing career?

He was widely known as "Tree" due to his height (6'10") and his significant defensive presence, especially his shot-blocking and rebounding.

Did Herbert Williams ever play in the NBA Finals?

Yes, he was a member of the New York Knicks teams that reached the NBA Finals in both 1994 and 1999.

What coaching roles did Herbert Williams hold after his playing career?

He served as an assistant coach and interim head coach for the NBA's New York Knicks, and later as an assistant coach for the WNBA's New York Liberty.