Darrion Williams, a standout forward from Texas Tech, has become one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal after withdrawing his name from the 2025 NBA Draft. With his decision to return to college basketball for his senior season, several top programs are vying for his commitment, including Kansas, NC State, and Ohio State.
While Kansas and NC State have emerged as frontrunners, analysts suggest that Ohio State’s connection to Williams through a former high school teammate could complicate the race.
Darrion Williams’ Recruitment: A Battle Between Top Programs
Williams’ decision to withdraw from the NBA Draft has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world. The 6’6” forward, who averaged 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game last season at Texas Tech, is now a top priority for several Power Five programs.
His versatility, shooting ability, and experience make him an ideal fit for teams looking to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. However, with many programs in the mix, the competition for his services is fierce.
Williams is such a hot commodity. Over his three-year college career, which included one season at Nevada before transferring to Texas Tech, he’s grown into a dynamic forward. Last season, he posted career highs across the board, but his NCAA Tournament performance was really impressive.
In Texas Tech’s Elite Eight run, Williams averaged 21.0 points and 5.0 rebounds over four games, earning All-West Region honors. His ability to score in bunches, grab rebounds, and dish out assists makes him a rare talent.
Kansas, NC State, Ohio State Battle for Williams
Kansas has been a popular pick to land Williams, evidently. They need a versatile wing to round out their roster, especially with freshman phenom Darren Peterson set to take the reins as the primary ball-handler.
Peterson, a potential No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, brings elite playmaking, but Kansas lacks proven scoring elsewhere.
Analysts have highlighted how Williams could fit seamlessly into Lawrence.
“I just think he’s the perfect piece next to Darren Peterson,” the analyst said on “The Field of 68 After Dark” podcast. “You had a guy that could be the initiator offensively, and then you had somebody else that could do.”
Williams’ career 36% three-point shooting and secondary playmaking would give Kansas the spacing and balance they need.
The Jayhawks have added transfers like Melvin Console Jr. from St. Bonaventure and Trey White from Illinois, but neither of these players is a consistent scorer. That’s where Williams comes in.
Over in Raleigh, NC State is making a strong push for Williams, and their roster truly needs him. The Wolfpack has a solid foundation but lacks a go-to player to carry the offense.
Head coach Will Wade, fresh off a surprising NCAA Tournament run last season, sees Williams as the missing piece to keep NC State competitive in the ACC.
Ohio State might not be the loudest name in this race, but they’re far from out of it. A big reason?
Williams’ high school connection with Janina Nope Mobley, a current Buckeyes player. The two played together in Sacramento, and that relationship could give Ohio State a personal angle that the other schools can’t match.
“There’s a connection he played high school ball with Janina Nope Mobley, the shooter for Ohio State,” an analyst pointed out on the podcast.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
The Buckeyes also have a roster that could use Williams’ scoring punch. With a strong backcourt but questions up front, his multi-positional game would fit nicely in Columbus. It’s a Wild Card worth watching.
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