One of the top juniors in the country is off the board, as Elijah Williams, son of former NBA head coach Monty Williams committed to Baylor last week. Williams picked Baylor over other top suitors that included Arizona, Notre Dame, Oregon, and Alabama, among others.
“I just felt like Baylor showed the most interest,” Williams said when asked why he picked Baylor. “I feel like it’s the role that I want, the responsibilities that I want.
“Coach Drew was one of the biggest reasons why,” Williams added. “Just the man he is, the coach he is, and the relationship we built through recruitment was really big for me. He’s been there for such a long time, so I don’t have to worry about him leaving.”
Baylor started recruiting Williams toward the beginning of his junior year. Williams would take an official visit to Baylor in May, which helped influence his decision.
“It was really cool,” said Williams. “I felt welcomed by all the coaches. I had a great time, and it wasn’t awkward at all; all the coaches talked to me on a personal level and a basketball level. They care about me more than just ‘Elijah plays basketball,’ they care about me as a person. I felt like that was big.”
The 6’6” wing attends TMI Episcopal High School (TX) where he plays for his father. He also plays for JL3 on the Nike EYBL Circuit, where he’s averaging 19.8 points and 5.4 rebounds per game on 41 percent shooting from 3-point range.
“I’m a three-level scorer,” said Williams when describing his game. “I can defend a lot of positions, and am someone who loves getting downhill.”
Even with his commitment in the rearview mirror, Williams still has an exciting high school career to finish. He has tryouts for the men’s junior national team, Peach Jam, and his upcoming senior season. His goals are clear–make the junior national team, win Peach Jam with JL3, and win a 2026 Texas state championship. As long as he’s winning and developing his game, it’ll be a good year for Williams. Because, as he reminded me, “Winners get a lot of perks.”
