Last Updated on April 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here is the information on Herb Williams:

Player Profile

  • Full Name: Herbert L. Williams
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: Born February 16, 1958
  • Hometown: Columbus, Ohio, USA
  • Height: 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 meters)
  • Weight: 245 pounds (111 kg)
  • Wingspan: 6 feet 11 inches
  • Shoe Size: Size 18 (US)
  • Number: Wore #32 (with the Pacers, Mavericks, Knicks)
  • Position: Center / Power Forward
  • High School: Marion-Franklin High School (Columbus, Ohio)
  • College: Ohio State University (1977–1981)
  • NBA Draft: 1981 NBA Draft, 1st Round, 14th overall by the Indiana Pacers
  • Teams Played For:
    • Indiana Pacers (1981–1989)
    • Dallas Mavericks (1989–1992)
    • New York Knicks (1992–1999)
    • Toronto Raptors (1996, briefly during a trade)
  • Championship Rings: None as a player, but served as an assistant coach for the New York Knicks
  • Kids: Has children, but specific details not widely publicized
  • Siblings: Information not publicly available

Player Archetype / Play Style

Herb Williams’ player archetype was that of a durable, old-school two-way big, a steady interior presence who could play center or power forward, score without needing the offense built around him, and anchor the paint with size and discipline. At 6-foot-11 and 260 pounds, he had the frame and strength for a true interior role, and defensively he operated as a positional rim protector and post defender who relied on timing, rebounding, and physicality more than highlight plays. Offensively, Williams fit as a dependable low-post and short-range scorer, using simple moves, touch near the basket, and screen-setting to give teams stable frontcourt production rather than flashy creation. His overall play style was rugged, professional, and consistent, which is a big reason he lasted 18 NBA seasons and built the reputation of a reliable complementary big man. (NBA)

Sources:
NBA.com — Herb Williams | Center | Indiana Pacers | NBA.com
Ohio State Buckeyes — Herb Williams (1999) | Hall of Fame Inductees | Ohio State
Wikipedia — Herb Williams