Ziaire Williams from the Nets is doing well after being sidelined for the last two games of 2025.

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After sitting out the last two games of 2025 due to a coach’s decision, Nets forward Ziaire Williams made an impressive return. He recorded his best performance of the season, shooting 57.1 percent from the field, hitting 7 of 13 three-pointers, making 10 of 11 free throws, and averaging 3 steals and 1 block with 13.7 points per game.

“I’m just continuing to prepare, just being the hardest worker, doing my best defensively, wreaking havoc, taking deflections, and taking shots when I’m open,” Williams mentioned after practice on Tuesday. “Whether you start, come off the bench, play 30 minutes or 10 minutes, at the end of the day, it’s the same game.”

“I just believed in my job. I played my best. I gave it my all. That’s it,” he added.

In his first season with Brooklyn last year, the No. 10 overall pick in 2021 had an average showing, achieving career highs of 10.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and a 34.1 three-point percentage in 63 games.

However, after signing a two-year, $12.5 million extension, the 24-year-old forward’s performance took a dip, with averages dropping to 9.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and a 40.9 field goal percentage, although his defense improved.

Williams bounced back from an injury, scoring 14 points and making five steals against the Rockets on January 1st. Following that performance, his role became clear to the coaching staff.

“He brings great positive energy,” said coach Jordi Fernandes. “He comes in and works every day with a smile. He competes at a high level, does the right things, and is still young. He’s growing in many ways and brings defensive intensity that can change the game. All these aspects are vital for us as a team. This is the Ziaire we need and hope to see continue improving.”