Brooklyn Nets' PG Deron Williams participates in drills

Brooklyn Nets’ PG Deron Williams participates in drills

Oct 12, 2013; Brooklyn, NY, USA; From left Brooklyn Nets small forward Paul Pierce and Brooklyn Nets power forward Kevin Garnett and Brooklyn Nets point guard Deron Williams look on against the Detroit Pistons during the second half of the preseason game at Barclays Center. The Pistons won the game 99-88 Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Brooklyn Nets point guard Deron Williams could be close to making a return.

Williams participated in halfcourt five-on-five drills Tuesday. It was the first time Williams participated in a contact drill since training camp began.

“It was good to get back out there,” Williams told Mike Mazzeo of ESPN New York. “It was only for like 15-20 minutes, but to do contact, 5-on-5 half-court, you’re not part of the cheerleading squad. So it was definitely good to be out there.”

Williams injured his ankle during an offseason workout in Utah.

Williams likely won’t play in Wednesday’s game at Boston against the Celtics. The game will mark the return of big man Kevin Garnett, swingman Paul Pierce and point guard Jason Terry to Boston. Williams would probably love to play alongside his new teammates, but doesn’t feel he is ready.

“I didn’t feel in sync at all because I haven’t played basketball (full-go),” Williams said. “But it felt good to get out there.”

Last season, Williams averaged 18.9 points, 7.7 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game.

The Nets will start the regular season on October 30 in Cleveland against the Cavaliers.

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