yahoo
In a season where extra eligibility is reshaping rosters, Darrion Williams has found his next home. The former NC State standout announced his commitment to Texas Tech, where he will play his final year of college basketball, provided the current eligibility rules stay in effect.
Kentucky had shown interest in Williams last month, as reported by Ben Roberts of the Lexington Herald-Leader, but the Wildcats were unable to secure the 225-pound wing. Williams' decision to return to Lubbock marks a homecoming of sorts, as he previously spent two seasons with the Red Raiders, starting 67 games.
Last season at NC State, Williams averaged 14.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 40.4% from beyond the arc. His journey began at Nevada, where he earned Mountain West Freshman of the Year honors after averaging 7.3 rebounds per game. He then transferred to Texas Tech, where he posted 7.5 rebounds per game in his first season before moving to NC State.
Kentucky's Search Continues
For Kentucky, missing out on Williams leaves a gap on the wing, especially with Kam Williams sidelined after a second foot surgery. The team is hopeful for his recovery, but depth remains a concern. Mark Pope and his staff are now exploring other options, including Michigan State's Jaxon Kohler, Missouri's Mark Mitchell, and Auburn's Keyshawn Hall.
With the eligibility landscape still evolving, Kentucky may have additional chances to bolster their roster before the 2026-27 season. The Wildcats are also counting on Braydon Hawthorne to step up after a redshirt year, but questions linger about who will emerge in the wing and forward positions.
Originally reported by yahoo.