Rumors have been swirling that Texas Tech transfer Darrion Williams and Memphis standout PJ Haggerty could be heading to NC State for the 2025-26 season. 247Sports takes Haggerty’s move as a given, while Williams withdrew his name from the NBA Draft on Wednesday, and the Wolfpack’s interest in him is widely known.
If both players end up at North Carolina, it would be a big boost for Will Wade’s first team in the Red & White, which was far from good last season. But would this move be beneficial for both the players and the program? Let’s break it down.
What Would Darrion Williams and PJ Haggerty Bring to North Carolina State?
Williams was a key contributor for the Red Raiders last season, averaging 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 34% from the perimeter. His versatility as a combo forward made him one of the most efficient players in the Big 12. He excelled as a strong rebounder for his size, able to stretch the floor, and playing with high energy, all traits that would fit well in NC State’s system.
Sources: Darrion Williams has officially withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft.
Williams — who averaged 15.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 3.6 APG last season at Texas Tech — is currently in the transfer portal.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) May 20, 2025
Haggerty, for his part was one of the most explosive scorers in college basketball last season, averaging 21.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 47.6% from the field. The 2025 AAC Player of the Year is a relentless slasher with a knack for getting to the free-throw line (7.8 attempts per game).
His ability to create offense would give NC State a much-needed dynamic scorer in the backcourt.
Would this move be good for NC State? Yes, for several reasons:
- Scoring Boost: NC State lost key guards Marcus Hill, Dontrez Styles and Jayden Taylor, so adding Haggerty’s elite scoring would fill a major void.
- Versatility: Williams can play multiple positions, defend, and shoot—perfect for Keatts’ fast-paced system.
- Rebounding and Defense: Williams’s ability to crash the glass would help NC State, which struggled at times with rebounding last season.
Potential Concerns:
- Ball Control: Haggerty is a high-usage player, so integrating him with the returning guards that Keatt will eventually sign would likely require adjustments.
- Defensive Fit: Neither Williams nor Haggerty is known as an elite defender, which could be an issue in the very physical ACC.
What about the players? Should they be happy to end up with the Wolfpacks?
Yes. NC State’s system would maximize Williams’ skills as a stretch forward, and he could be a focal point in the frontcourt. In Haggerty’s case, the ACC would continue to provide a bigger stage to showcase his scoring ability, improving his NBA draft stock. However, he’d need to prove he can maintain efficiency at this level.
KEEP READING: NC State’s Gamble Pays Off Early: Panel Calls Will Wade ‘A Hell of a Coach’ With a Point to Prove
The final reading is that NC State would instantly become a more dangerous team in the ACC if these transfers materialize. The biggest question is how quickly they can adapt to Wade’s system. If they mesh well, this could be a home run move for all parties involved.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
