Biography:
Natalie Jean Williams, born on November 30, 1970, is an American basketball executive and former player in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She has made significant contributions to both basketball and volleyball throughout her career and has left a lasting impact on the sports world. In recognition of her achievements, Williams was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
Williams’ passion for sports runs in the family as she is the daughter of Nate Williams, a former basketball player in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Growing up in Southern California, she attended Taylorsville High School in Utah. Williams comes from a family with a strong athletic background, as both of her half-brothers pursued basketball careers while her half-sister focused on tennis.
Continuing her education at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Williams excelled both on the basketball court and the volleyball court. She became the first woman to receive All-America honors in both sports in the same year, a testament to her incredible athleticism and skill. Williams led UCLA to NCAA volleyball championships in 1990 and 1991, solidifying her place as one of the top collegiate volleyball players of her time. She was also recognized as the nation’s best female collegiate volleyball player, winning the Honda-Broderick Award in 1992 and 1993.
In basketball, Williams showcased her versatility and talent. Her statistics at UCLA demonstrate her prowess and impact on the court. Throughout her career, she averaged an impressive 20.4 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 52.8% and a free throw percentage of 63.2%. She was a dominant force in the paint, averaging 12.8 rebounds per game. Williams’ contributions went beyond scoring, as she also averaged 1.1 assists, 2.5 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.
After her successful college career, Williams transitioned to the professional level, playing in the American Basketball League (ABL) for the Portland Power. Her impact was immediately felt, earning her two All-ABL first team selections and the ABL Most Valuable Player (M.V.P.) award in 1998. Williams also set a league record with 22 rebounds in a single game. Her stellar performance showcased her ability to dominate the court and solidified her place among the ABL’s top players.
When the ABL folded, Williams seized the opportunity to continue her career in the newly formed WNBA. Joining the Utah Starzz, her hometown team, in 1999 marked a full circle moment for the talented athlete. Throughout her WNBA career, Williams consistently displayed her skills and leadership, making a significant impact on the court. She contributed to the growth of the league and served as a role model for young women aspiring to pursue a career in basketball.
In addition to her accomplishments as a player, Williams has also made strides in the basketball world as an executive. Since 2022, she has served as the General Manager of the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces. Her expertise and experience have undoubtedly helped shape the future of the league, further establishing her as a leader within the basketball community.
Williams’ contributions to sports, both as a player and an executive, have left a lasting impact on women’s basketball. Her dedication, skill, and perseverance have inspired generations of athletes to chase their dreams and strive for excellence. Natalie Williams’ legacy as a trailblazer and pioneer in women’s sports is unmatched, and her induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame is a testament to her remarkable career.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2016)