PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Phoenix Suns could see a change at center after one of their starters underwent surgery Thursday.
The team announced Friday that starting center Mark Williams underwent successful surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He suffered the injury during an offseason workout.
Williams is expected to miss an “extended period of time” for recovery, according to ESPN Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania.
However, the team says a timetable for Williams’ return has not yet been determined.
Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams underwent surgery Thursday to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and will miss an extended period of time, sources tell ESPN. Williams suffered the injury in an offseason workout. pic.twitter.com/iXVlVVItv4
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 11, 2026
Oso Ighodaro could replace Williams as the Suns’ starting center during that time.
Last season, Williams averaged more than 11 points and roughly 8 rebounds per game. According to ESPN, he has career averages of 12 points, 8.5 rebounds and one block per game.
The 24-year-old dealt with foot injuries last season, causing him to miss numerous games.
Williams, a first-round 2022 NBA Draft pick, spent three seasons with the Charlotte Hornets before being traded to the Suns in June 2025. He re-signed with the Suns on a 3-year, $38 million contract during the offseason, according to ESPN.
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