Michael Carter-Williams, the former NBA Rookie of the Year, is stepping into a new ring. The 33-year-old has traded his basketball sneakers for boxing gloves and will make his amateur boxing debut on May 29 in New York.
Carter-Williams will face Sam Khativ in a three-round heavyweight bout at the Leman Ballroom. The event, dubbed "Broad Street Brawl," aims to raise funds for Bigvision Community, a non-profit supporting young adults recovering from substance abuse.
The 1.96m tall athlete had a notable NBA career spanning nearly a decade. Drafted 11th overall in 2013 by the Philadelphia 76ers, Carter-Williams made an immediate impact. He won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2014, averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game.
Over his career, Carter-Williams suited up for several teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets, and Orlando Magic. He maintained career averages of 10.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.
After a stint with the Mexico City Capitanes in the G League, Carter-Williams retired from professional basketball in October 2024. He's since transitioned to a role as a college basketball television analyst.
Speaking to The Athletic about his basketball career, Carter-Williams expressed contentment:
"I'm at peace with my career. I've accomplished so much and lived a life bigger than I ever dreamed of. I've met amazing people and I'm able to contribute to the community, which I'm proud of. I'm grateful for everything. I have no regrets. I really don't."
Now, Carter-Williams faces a new challenge in the boxing ring. Promoter Ronson Frank sees potential in the former NBA star. Frank told ESPN:
"Michael Carter-William is very proud, athletic and I think he can be successful as an amateur boxer. If he turns professional, that's another story. You have to be a world-class athlete to succeed in the NBA, and if he has that same dedication to boxing, along with his natural athletic ability, he has the potential to succeed."
While Carter-Williams' amateur prospects look promising, his potential in professional boxing remains uncertain. His performance in the debut fight will likely shape future opportunities in the sport.
As Carter-Williams prepares for his boxing debut, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see how his NBA skills translate to the boxing ring. The "Broad Street Brawl" on May 29 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the former basketball star.
