History of Will Riley in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 8, 2026

William Riley is a Canadian professional basketball player currently playing for the Washington Wizards in the NBA. He honed his skills playing college basketball for the Illinois Fighting Illini before transitioning to the professional level. His career is still developing as he begins his journey in the NBA.

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Full Timeline

February 1994: Wizards Rookie milestone

In 2026, Riley became the first Wizards rookie since Calbert Cheaney in February 1994 to record consecutive 30-point games.

2002: Surpassing Dee Brown

In 2024, William Riley became the highest-ranked recruit signed by Illinois in the internet era, surpassing Dee Brown from the class of 2002.

2004: Comparison to Lebron James

In 2026, Riley became the youngest player since Lebron James in 2004 to record at least 30 points and five steals in one game.

February 10, 2006: William Riley's Birth

On February 10, 2006, William Riley was born. He is now a Canadian professional basketball player.

Others born on this day/year

June 23, 2024: Riley commits to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

On June 23, 2024, William Riley committed to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, reclassifying from the class of 2025 to 2024 to join earlier.

November 11, 2024: Named Big Ten Freshman of the Week

On November 11, 2024, William Riley was named the first Big Ten Freshman of the Week for the 2024–25 season due to his performance, averaging 22.5 points and seven rebounds per game.

2024: Named MVP at Basketball Without Borders Global Camp

In 2024, William Riley was named MVP of the Basketball Without Borders Global Camp during the NBA All-Star weekend.

October 22, 2025: Professional debut with the Wizards

On October 22, 2025, William Riley made his professional debut with the Washington Wizards, scoring two points in a loss against the Milwaukee Bucks.

2025: Declared for the 2025 NBA draft

In 2025, William Riley declared for the NBA draft and received a green room invite on June 16.

2025: Ranked as top prospect

In 2025, William Riley was ranked as the top-ranked Canadian prospect and No. 9 overall by 247Sports, No. 10 by On3, and No. 11 by Rivals.

2026: Consecutive 30-point games

In 2026, Riley became the first Wizards rookie since February 1994 to record consecutive 30-point games. He also became the youngest player since 2004 to record at least 30 points and five steals in one game.