Cody Williams Returns to Basics: Leg Rolls, Defense, and Cutting to Improve His Game (2026)

Here’s a bold statement: even the most talented athletes sometimes need to take a step back to move forward. And that’s exactly what Utah Jazz’s Cody Williams is doing right now. But here’s where it gets controversial—is reverting to the basics a sign of struggle, or a strategic move to rebuild success? Let’s dive in.

Sarah Todd, who covers the NBA and Utah Jazz for the Deseret News, recently highlighted Williams’ journey in her Jazz Insiders newsletter (a must-read if you’re not already subscribed—sign up here: https://pages.deseret.com/newsletters/jazz-insiders). During a pre-game workout with assistant coach Chad Forcier, Williams was spotted practicing a technique that might sound familiar to anyone who’s ever worked on their shooting form—what Todd calls “leg rolls.” This drill, which focuses on tightening the elbow and loading the wrist, is all about perfecting hand placement and follow-through. Think of it as the basketball equivalent of mastering your pen grip before writing a masterpiece. (Curious? Watch this clip to see it in action: https://youtu.be/UcnB9e5O5NY?si=Qv9ZiCC3-evIOHLz&t=231).

Williams isn’t just tinkering with this technique for fun—he’s using it as a pregame ritual for his 3-pointers. “Sometimes you just need to reset,” he explained. “Let’s go back to the basics, get the fundamentals right.” And this is the part most people miss—it’s not about admitting failure; it’s about recognizing that even pros need to recalibrate.

Let’s be honest: Williams has had a tough season. Shooting just 15.4% from the 3-point line and averaging 4.1 points per game, his stats aren’t where he or the team wants them to be. His spot in the rotation has been inconsistent, adding another layer of challenge. But instead of letting frustration take over, Williams is doubling down on what he can control: defense and off-ball movement.

Here’s the thing—Williams isn’t just a shooter. He’s a smart defender, a relentless slasher, and a cutter who thrives in transition. By shifting his focus to these strengths, he’s not just staying afloat; he’s setting himself up for success. As Jazz coach Will Hardy put it, “I want Cody to continue to focus on defending at a high level, applying pressure to the rim offensively, whether that’s driving the ball or cutting. Then we can talk about his shooting.” Bold interpretation alert: Could this be the start of a new, more well-rounded version of Cody Williams?

Now, let’s spark some debate. Is Williams’ approach a temporary fix or a long-term strategy? Should players prioritize their strengths, or is it crucial to keep working on weaknesses? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’m curious to hear what you think.

Before you go, here are a few related reads and updates from around the league:

New with the Jazz
- Close games against champions, even losses, are valuable learning experiences. Read more.
- The Jazz defense is due for a change. Details here.
- The Jazz gave back to the community by assisting with a local basketball court. See the photos.

Around the League
- The Hawks traded Trae Young to the Wizards. Full story.
- The Timberwolves held a moment of silence for Renee Good, a woman killed by ICE. Learn more.
- The Heat-Bulls game was postponed due to condensation on the court. Get the details.