Derrick Williams Impressing After Slow Rookie Year
MANKATO, Minn. (AP) -- Derrick Williams entered his first season in the NBA among the few favorites to win the rookie of the year award.
The Minnesota Timberwolves forward had his moments, but all in all delivered an underwhelming season as the No. 2 overall pick. Williams averaged just 8.8 points and 4.7 rebounds.
Worse was coach Rick Adelman's assessment that he didn't practice and play hard enough. The Timberwolves challenged Williams to prove that he is willing to put in the work.
Williams has reported to training camp about 10 pounds lighter. And Adelman has been very impressed with his approach to practice. The coach says Williams looks like a different player, but he wants to see him sustain that intensity.
(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
