While it’s nearly impossible to keep up with all of the action in the transfer portal, Thursday gave us a move that could send shockwaves for multiple teams and conferences. Considered one of the top names available in the portal, Darrion Williams announced his intention to transfer to NC State, joining new head coach Will Wade’s talented new lineup.
A 6-6 small forward out of Las Vegas, Williams starred at Bishop Gorman High School before finding his first home in state up at Nevada. He made major strides, averaging more than 7 points and 7 rebounds per outing to win MWC Rookie of the Year honors in his first season, but what would become his only year with that Wolf Pack.
NC State lands Texas Tech transfer Darrion Williams
Williams transferred to Texas Tech in 2023, joining new head coach Grant McCasland’s program and becoming a major playmaker these last two seasons. He remained a solid rebounder and became an elite shooter as a sophomore, making 45% of his 3-pointers albeit in limited opportunities, though his role was even larger this past season as a junior.
In a season where he helped lead Texas Tech to the Elite Eight, Williams averaged 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists and became a complete weapon for the Red Raiders. While some of his shooting metrics went down slightly, his overall production was the highest of his career and he certainly didn’t shy away from opportunity.
Three of Williams’ eight games with 20-point performances came in that NCAA Tournament run, including a 28-point outing against Drake and 23 points in a heartbreaking loss to Florida in the Elite Eight. Williams put his best foot forward in his final moments on the biggest stage and now has a chance to shine just as bright out in Raleigh.
Williams joins the Wolfpack but is far from the only new piece suiting up for NC State next season. Wade and his new staff have been busy, landing notable transfers like Terrance Arceneaux from Houston, Tre Holloman from Michigan State, and Quadir Copeland who followed Wade from McNeese State.
If Williams can have the same type of production with the Wolfpack, then this All-Big 12 talent could be the ring leader for Wade’s opening salvo as an ACC head coach. The addition of Williams likely means that NC State is out on PJ Haggerty, but we likely haven’t seen the end of Wade adding talent to this roster. We’ve seen him work incredible things at his prior stops and NC State could be a special program already this season.