Robert Williams III Shines in Trail Blazers’ Victory Season Debut

The Portland Trail Blazers secured a thrilling 109-107 victory over the Denver Nuggets, showcasing their resilience and tenacity. The win marked a significant moment for the team as they look to establish themselves in the 2025-26 NBA season. A highlight of the game was the season debut of Robert Williams III, who played after an extended absence.

Robert Williams III Makes Season Debut

Robert Williams III checked into the game with 7:34 left in the first quarter. This was his first game back after missing significant time over the past two seasons. He had only played 26 games in the previous two years and sat out the first five games of this season. Williams spent time in the G League to regain his fitness before making his return.

Despite a minute restriction limiting his playtime to just 11 minutes and 15 seconds, Williams made an impact. He finished the game with:

• 4 points
• 4 rebounds
• 1 block
• 1 assist

His performance thrilled teammates, who expressed excitement over his presence on the court. Blazers forward Deni Avdija emphasized Williams’ importance, highlighting his athleticism and competitive spirit.

Impactful Moments on the Court

Williams wasted no time showcasing his skills. He scored within two minutes of his debut, executing a well-timed layup after receiving a pass from Blake Wesley. He contributed several highlights, including:

• Three offensive rebounds
• A critical fourth-quarter assist leading to a Toumani Camara floater
• A third-quarter block of Peyton Watson’s layup, resulting in a shot-clock violation
• A powerful alley-oop dunk from a lob by Jrue Holiday

Despite admitting to being winded after the game, Williams was elated to return to the court. He expressed gratitude for the win and acknowledged the team’s ability to perform under pressure. Teammate Jerami Grant humorously remarked on Williams’ dedication to conditioning, emphasizing his contributions to both offense and defense.

Looking Ahead

Williams views his role on the team as crucial, offering versatility and strength to the Blazers’ interior offense. As he continues to increase his playing time, the team plans to gradually expand his minutes as he builds his conditioning. This debut could significantly influence the Blazers as they aim for a successful season.

The timing of Williams’ return, which coincided with Halloween—his favorite holiday—made the day even more special. He indicated a desire to celebrate his return with some good food and rest after the game. This moment not only marked an important milestone for Williams but also reinvigorated the Blazers’ aspirations this season.