Rookie of the Year and three-time All-Star — the most reliable power forward of the 1980s who never missed a season.
Charles Linwood Williams was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina in 1960 and attended the University of Maryland. New Jersey Nets selected him third overall in the 1981 NBA Draft. His 17-season career produced 12.8 points and 10.5 rebounds per game along with three All-Star appearances. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 1982 after averaging 15.5 points and 12.3 rebounds. He was named to the All-NBA Second Team twice. He averaged double figures in rebounds for seven consecutive seasons. He reached the NBA Finals with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1990 and 1992 — both times losing to Chicago. His field goal percentage was exceptional for a power forward — he shot 55.4% from the field across his career. He played 17 seasons without ever missing a season entirely to injury — a durability record that reflects exceptional physical maintenance. He was one of the most respected locker room presences of his era — his professionalism, work ethic and consistency made him a model teammate everywhere he played. He won the NBA Good Guy Award multiple times and was consistently praised by coaches for his character as much as his play.
Rebounding, defense, and durability as a power forward
How They Played
Physical power forward with strong rebounding skills, solid mid-range shooting, and tenacious defense
Lasting Impact
One of the most consistent power forwards of the 1980s, known for his work ethic and defensive prowess
Rookie of the Year (1982)
Career Honours
- Rookie of the Year (1982)
- All-Star 3x
- All-NBA Second Team 2x