Ayrton Oneill
Will Graves is an American professional basketball player who last played for FC Porto of the Liga Portuguesa de Basquetebol (LPB). He was born on May 15, 1988, and is 6 feet 5 inches tall. He played college basketball for North Carolina and then professionally in Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, Iceland, Israel and Portugal. He is also a rapper who has published original songs under the name Willy G.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Thomas Graves |
| Date of Birth | 15 May 1988 |
| Height | 6 ft 5 in (1.98 m) |
| Position | Shooting Guard / Small Forward |
| Teams | Gonzaga University, Lane Community College, North Carolina, Akita Northern Happinets, Boca Juniors, Keflavík, Maccabi Haifa, Hapoel Haifa, FC Porto, Apoel Nicosia |
| Notable Achievements | North Carolina High School Player of the Year (2006), Reached Efficiency Career High in 2011, Reached Steals Career High in 2011, Reached Blocks Career High in 2014, Reached Points Career High in 2017 |
| Off-Court Activities | Rapper (recording name: Willy G) |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Will Graves' college and professional basketball career
William Thomas Graves, born on May 15, 1988, is an American professional basketball player. Standing at six feet five inches tall, he is a shooting guard/small forward.
Graves played college basketball for North Carolina for three years, averaging 9.8 points and 4.6 rebounds in his junior year. During his time at North Carolina, he also played for Lane Community College in Eugene and Gonzaga University. In 2021-22, as a senior at Gonzaga, he saw action in 16 games, recording 11 points and a season-high three against Portland. He then transferred to NAIA Southern Oregon for his final season.
Graves started his professional career in 2011, signing with the Akita Northern Happinets of Japan. On April 3, 2011, he set a career-high in points, scoring 41 points, along with 20 rebounds and 5 assists, in a win against Niigata Albirex. He also had successful stints in Argentina, Venezuela, Iceland, and Israel. On February 27, 2017, while playing in Israel, Graves recorded a career-high 34 points in a game against Maccabi Tel Aviv. He then signed with Portuguese team FC Porto in 2019, averaging 13 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game during his time with the club. In addition to his basketball career, Graves is also a rapper who publishes songs under the name Willy G.
Ohio High School Basketball: Shot Clock Rules Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
His career stats and records
Will Graves is an American professional basketball player. He played college basketball for North Carolina and then played professionally in Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, Iceland, Israel, and Portugal.
Graves attended James B. Dudley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he averaged 25.1 points and shot 44% from beyond the arc, leading the team to two state championships. He was named the North Carolina High School Player of the Year in 2006.
He played three years of college basketball for the University of North Carolina, averaging 9.8 points and 4.6 rebounds in his junior year. On February 10, 2011, he signed with the Akita Northern Happinets of Japan and started his professional career.
On April 3, 2011, Graves set a career-high in points in a Japan - B2 League game, scoring 41 points, along with 20 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal. He also set a career-high in efficiency in the same game, achieving a rating of 49. On April 2, 2011, he set another career-high in rebounds, grabbing 21 rebounds in a game against Niigata Albirex.
On February 27, 2017, Graves recorded an Israeli League career-high 34 points and eight rebounds in a game against Maccabi Tel Aviv. He played for Maccabi Haifa for three seasons before signing with Hapoel Haifa of the Israeli National League in 2018. However, he parted ways with the team before appearing in an official game.
Graves then signed with the Portuguese team FC Porto in 2019. In 20 games played for Porto, he averaged 13 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. He helped the team reach the Portuguese League Semifinals.
Graves has also played for Gonzaga University, appearing in 39 games over three seasons and compiling 25 points and 12 rebounds. He saw action in 16 games during the 2021-22 season, recording 11 points and a season-high three against Portland.
The Early Days of USA Basketball
You may want to see also
Explore related products
His career as a rapper under the name 'Willy G'
In addition to his basketball career, Will Graves is also a rapper who publishes original songs under the name "Willy G". Willy G's interest in rapping may have stemmed from his early basketball career at James B. Dudley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he averaged 25.1 points and 44 per cent shooting from beyond the arc, showcasing his versatility and creativity on the court.
Willy G's rapping career allows him to express himself creatively off the basketball court. He has likely drawn inspiration from his experiences as a basketball player, infusing his music with themes of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Willy G's music may also reflect his personal journey, including the challenges and triumphs he has faced in his basketball career, such as his time playing for various teams across different countries.
Willy G's rapping style is unknown, but it is possible that he incorporates elements of storytelling and wordplay into his lyrics, narrating his experiences and perspectives in a rhythmic and engaging manner. His music may also explore personal growth, resilience, and the importance of chasing one's dreams, reflecting his own journey in the world of basketball.
Although Willy G's rapping career may not be as prominent as his basketball career, it provides him with an outlet to express his passions and connect with fans beyond the basketball court. He may have found a way to merge his love for basketball and music, using rapping as a medium to share his experiences and inspire others who aspire to excel in their pursuits, whether in sports or other endeavours.
Willy G's rapping career serves as a testament to his versatility and creativity, showcasing his ability to excel both on and off the basketball court. By pursuing his passion for music, he has likely gained a deeper sense of fulfilment and connected with a wider audience who appreciate his talents and the messages conveyed through his original songs.
Fantasy Basketball: Strategies for Daily Wins
You may want to see also
Explore related products
His time as a Gonzaga walk-on
Will Graves, the 6-foot-5 American professional basketball player, had a notable three-year stint as a walk-on at Gonzaga University. During his time with the Gonzaga Bulldogs, Graves played in 39 games across three seasons, accumulating 25 points and 12 rebounds.
Graves' journey to Gonzaga began at Lane Community College in Eugene, where he spent his first year of college basketball. He then transferred to Gonzaga, where he played for three seasons before finishing his college career at NAIA Southern Oregon. At Gonzaga, Graves was surrounded by talented teammates and coaches, including future assistants Brian Michaelson and Stephen Gentry, who he credits for their support and mentorship.
Graves' dedication to the sport extended beyond his college career. He pursued professional opportunities internationally, playing in various countries, including Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, Iceland, Israel, and Portugal. His professional career was marked by impressive performances, such as his career-high 41 points and 20 rebounds in a game for Akita Northern in Japan's B2 League.
In addition to his athletic pursuits, Graves has explored his creative side as a rapper, publishing original songs under the recording name Willy G. His diverse interests and accomplishments showcase his well-rounded personality and drive for excellence both on and off the court.
Wisconsin Basketball's National Tournament Run: How Far?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
His time as a player development coach
Will Graves' time as a player development coach is impressive and well-regarded in the basketball world. After his playing career, which included stints at Lane Community College, Gonzaga University, and Southern Oregon, Graves transitioned into coaching.
He joined the Florida program as a graduate assistant coach under Todd Golden. This move marked a new chapter in his career, and he quickly made an impact. During his time with the Florida Gators, the team experienced significant success, finishing with a 34-4 record in Golden's third season. This achievement highlighted Graves' contribution to the team's development and success.
As a player development coach, Graves brought a unique perspective to the role. His own experience as a former player, including his time as a walk-on at Gonzaga, allowed him to relate to the athletes he was coaching. He understood the challenges they faced and the dedication required to succeed. This empathy enabled him to connect with the players and provide tailored guidance and support.
Graves' coaching style was influenced by the people who had mentored him throughout his playing career. He credited coaches like Brian Michaelson and Stephen Gentry, former Gonzaga walk-ons themselves, for shaping his approach. Their support and guidance had a lasting impact on Graves, and he carried those lessons into his own coaching philosophy.
In his role as a player development coach, Graves focused on enhancing the athletes' overall performance, both on and off the court. He emphasized the importance of physical conditioning, shot-making, and athletic ability. Additionally, he recognized the mental aspect of the game, understanding that confidence and mental toughness are crucial to a player's success. By incorporating a holistic approach to player development, Graves helped the athletes under his guidance reach their full potential.
Mastering the Art of High Arcs in Basketball
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Will Graves, the American professional basketball player, was born on May 15, 1988.
Graves has played for several teams, including Gonzaga University, Lane Community College, and the University of North Carolina. He has also played professionally in Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, Iceland, Israel, and Portugal. His last recorded team was FC Porto of the Liga Portuguesa de Basquetebol (LPB).
In his off-court life, Will Graves is a rapper who publishes original songs under the recording name "Willy G".
