JAZZ: Jazz Select Williams

June 28, 2005

Jazz Select Williams

Williams was selected by the Jazz with the 3rd pick overall in Tuesday's draft.

Salt Lake City – With the third pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz selected University of Illinois point guard Deron Williams. It tied for the second-highest selection in franchise history. Williams turned pro after a stellar junior season with the Illini in which he became one of the most accomplished point guards in the nation.

"This was the guy we wanted," said Jazz Vice President of Basketball Operations Kevin O’Connor. "He’s a winner and he wants to make everybody else on the floor better. We’re thrilled to have him on board."

"I’m looking forward to playing in Utah for Jerry Sloan." Williams said. "He’s a great coach, one of the best in the game."

"I know the Jazz have a long history of winning, and I’m proud to be one of the players that will help get them back to the playoffs."

Earlier in the day, the Jazz secured the third pick after trading their 6th and 27th picks plus a conditional future first-round selection that came from Detroit as part of the Carlos Arroyo trade.

"I heard about the trade this morning from my agent," said Williams. "And I was aware that Utah had a strong interest in me. I’m honored the Jazz made a trade to select me."

Williams led the Illini to the NCAA National Championship game last season as a junior. He was a consensus Second Team All-American, Most Outstanding Player of the Chicago Regional in the NCAA Tournament, First Team All-Big Ten and a Wooden Award finalist.