2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs prioritize two-way talents, Magic land surprise steal
By Reese Kunz
Pick No. 12: Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets) select Cody Williams
The Thunder land Jalen Williams’ brother, Cody, at No. 12. Oklahoma City has had arguably the most successful rebuild in the entire league, and a significant reason why is their emphasis on versatility. Even if the brotherhood bond didn’t play a factor in selecting Cody here, he fits in perfectly with their team identity. Williams is someone with great positional length at 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan. He’s also an excellent ballhandler for his size and would significantly help the Thunder bolster their wing depth.
As a freshman at Colorado, Williams averaged 11.9 points, three rebounds, and 1.6 assists on 55/42/71 shooting splits. Earlier in the season, Williams was even in consideration for the No. 1 overall selection. That option appears to be off the table now, but being selected in the top five isn't out of the realm of possibility. Teams like the Detroit Pistons at No. 5 could consider him, especially if Matas Buzelis is chosen before they are on the clock.
Outside of versatility, another aspect this Thunder organization strongly values is defense, as evident by last year’s selection of Cason Wallace and their recent trade for Alex Caruso, among many other examples. Due to his length and athleticism, Cody Williams has intriguing two-way potential. He would be an excellent fit with the Thunder.