Donovan Williams, UNLV wing, says he’s signed with Brooklyn

In a YouTube video posted 10 days ago, 6’6” UNLV wing Donovan Williams reports he’s headed to Brooklyn, presumably as an Exhibit 10 signee. Williams played for the Nets Summer League team in Las Vegas.

In both a panel within the video — “Donovan Williams aka ‘Stretch’ has been signed to the Brooklyn Nets” and in its description — “Donovan Williams is headed to Brooklyn!” the Houston native confirms his status.

The Nets have three Exhibit 10s left to announce and Williams, with his 7-foot wingspan, 40”+ max vertical and 3-point stroke, has been seen as a likely camp invite since June when he went undrafted...

As his video notes, he has spent a lot of time working out this summer with Tracy McGrady the seven-time All-Star. Williams said in the video that McGrady sought him out.

“Tracy McGrady ... he came to me. Maybe like a year or so ago, his brother came — they used to watch our games at Elkins (High School in Houston) — they said they really just wanted to work out,” Williams said, recounting the meeting. “Tracy McGrady wants to work me out!?!” That’s the type of player I want to be when I grow up.”

Williams was a four-star high school recruit who wound up at Texas for two years, but did not get much time on the court in Austin. So, he transferred to UNLV where he averaged 12.7 points and 3.3 rebounds with shooting splits of 49/44/64 in 22 minutes a game.

In Las Vegas. the 22-year-old didn’t put up big numbers, but had his moments...

“He didn’t hesitate when he got out there. Great energy. Strength and communication will be big things for him to succeed in the NBA,” said Adam Caporn, the Nets assistant coach who was the Summer League head coach.

In Exhibit 10 deals, NBA teams have the player’s exclusive G League rights once waived.

Three of Williams’ Summer League teammates decided to play overseas: Taze Moore with BG Göttingen in the German League; Yves Pons with ASVEL in the French league and Brison Gresham with Larnaca AEK in the Cyrpriot league. At least one — Moore — was reportedly offered a training camp contract but opted to play in Germany.