Darrion Williams Picks NC State, Leaving Ohio State and Others in the Dust

A Major Transfer Portal Shake-Up

In a huge shake-up in the college basketball transfer portal, former Texas Tech standout Darrion Williams has decided to take his talents to NC State, turning down Ohio State, Kansas, Auburn, and BYU. The news dropped on May 22, 2025, and it’s a massive win for NC State’s new head coach, Will Wade, who’s clearly got big plans for the Wolfpack.

A Star on the Court

Measuring in at a staggering 6'6" and 225 pounds, Williams entered the transfer portal as the most coveted player on the market. He was a monster for Texas Tech, earning First Team All-Big 12 honors with phenomenal averages of 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, shooting 43.9% from the field and 34% from distance. Williams was the heartbeat of Texas Tech’s thrilling Elite Eight run in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. He made his moment even sweeter with a game-tying steal and three-pointer, sealed with a game-winning basket in a come-from-behind win against Arkansas in the Sweet 16. Ice in those veins.

Testing the NBA Waters

After two seasons with the Red Raiders, Williams tested the waters by entering the transfer portal and declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft while keeping his college options open. But after a rough showing at the NBA Draft Combine—where he struggled with agility drills and didn’t score in scrimmages—he pulled out of the draft on May 20, 2025, ready to make waves back in college hoops. That decision set off a recruiting frenzy, with Ohio State, Kansas, and NC State duking it out for his commitment.

Ohio State’s Missed Opportunity

Williams was a big prospect for Ohio State and coach Jake Diebler. Having played high school ball alongside current Buckeye guard John Mobley Jr. at Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas, Williams seemed like a perfect replacement for star guard Micah Parrish, whose eligibility ended last season. With his scoring and versatility, Williams could have been a game-changer for a Buckeyes team desperate to recover after missing the NCAA Tournament for three straight years. Ohio State has brought in some worthy transfers, including Christoph Tilly, Josh Ojianwuna, and Gabe Cupps, but missing out on Williams stings—they were counting on him to add some serious scoring punch.

NC State’s Recruiting Coup

Meanwhile, NC State’s Will Wade pulled off a recruiting coup, convincing Williams to join the Wolfpack and help build something special in Raleigh. It’s a bold move for Williams, and fans are already buzzing about what he’ll bring to the court. For Ohio State, it’s back to the drawing board as they hunt for the next piece to turn their season around.