AAC Basketball: 25 best players from last decade (2013-23)

25. Deandre Williams

Standing 6’9, Williams is a talented forward originally from Houston who began his collegiate career four seasons ago at Evansville. He was ineligible initially but played great as a freshman with the Purple Aces despite missing more than a month with a back injury. Williams then transferred to Memphis and spent these past three years with the Tigers, though this might not be the end of his college journey.

Williams has been an essential part of Memphis’ offense, averaging at least 11 points and 5 rebounds a game in each of those three seasons. He was sometimes playing a supporting role next to stars like Jalen Duren or Kendric Davis, but Williams played an important role in the frontcourt. He hit greater than 40% of his 3-point attempts, albeit in limited attempts, and did take a big step forward last year, averaging 17.7 points and 8.2 rebounds per game to lead the Tigers.

Williams was efficient and an excellent weapon as a senior, earning him First Team All-AAC honors. He led the conference in field goal percentage and rebounding and was a monster late in the season during their postseason push. He helped lead Memphis to a pair of trips to the Big Dance and could return next season if he gets a waiver, bringing a top-level frontcourt weapon back for Penny Hardaway.