Darrion Williams’ NBA Dreams on Hold? Poor Combine Showing Points to College Return
CHICAGO — Under the bright lights of the NBA Draft Combine — where raw potential meets ruthless evaluation — Texas Tech’s Darrion Williams found himself on the wrong side of the spotlight. Once considered a promising prospect with the versatility to make the jump to the next level, Williams is now staring down a sobering reality: the NBA may have to wait.
The NBA Draft Combine, held this week in Chicago, offered fringe prospects like Williams a high-stakes platform to elevate their stock through team scrimmages and physical assessments. Instead, it became a humbling experience for the 6-foot-6 forward.
Across two consecutive scrimmage days, Williams struggled to find rhythm and impact on the offensive end. On Thursday, he played 20 minutes and posted just two points, shooting a disappointing 1-for-4 from the field and 0-for-2 from beyond the arc. While he managed seven rebounds, three assists, and a steal — numbers that showcase his all-around game — it wasn’t enough to offset his scoring drought. This performance followed a scoreless outing the day before, where he went 0-for-5 in shooting attempts.
For a modern NBA hopeful, especially one playing on the wing, offensive efficiency and shot creation are essential traits. And with GMs and scouts in attendance looking for immediate impact players, Williams’ lack of offensive spark may have severely dented his chances of hearing his name called in June.
A Fringe Prospect Facing Harsh Realities
Williams entered the Combine as a fringe second-round prospect. However, with the level of talent flooding the 2025 draft pool, especially at the forward position, his underwhelming performance now places him in precarious territory. Even if he were to be drafted, second-round picks in today’s NBA often don’t receive guaranteed contracts. The risk? Getting cut before the season begins and walking away with little to no financial security.
That’s where the allure of the NCAA — and the rapidly growing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) market — becomes impossible to ignore.
The College Comeback Option
Should Williams decide to return to the college game, he’d likely command a significant NIL deal, possibly earning more than he would from a non-guaranteed NBA contract. In today’s collegiate basketball landscape, a seasoned, recognizable talent like Williams can ink multi-million dollar NIL agreements — particularly from programs looking to make deep tournament runs.
However, a return to Texas Tech, the school he’s represented for the past two seasons, may not be a certainty.
The Red Raiders have already taken steps to move forward, landing Washington State transfer LeJuan Watts. Nearly identical in stature and role, Watts averaged 13.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists last season — numbers strikingly similar to Williams’. The move signals that Tech is preparing for a future without their veteran forward.
Head coach Grant McCasland had no choice. In a fast-moving offseason, waiting too long for Williams’ decision could have left the Red Raiders vulnerable. Now, with their small forward spot seemingly filled, the question becomes: where would Williams go?
A return to college is probable — but perhaps not in Lubbock.
What’s Next for Williams?
The dilemma facing Darrion Williams is not uncommon in today’s basketball era. With NIL money reshaping the collegiate landscape and the NBA becoming increasingly competitive and analytics-driven, many players find themselves stuck in the middle.
Williams has talent, no doubt. He’s a strong rebounder, capable passer, and high-IQ player with leadership qualities. But at the next level, teams are looking for players who can knock down shots consistently, create offense, and defend multiple positions.
Improving his shooting percentages and expanding his offensive arsenal over one more year of college ball could transform his future draft outlook. Additionally, by transferring to a program that emphasizes his strengths and helps him showcase his offensive growth, he could reposition himself as a legitimate NBA candidate in 2026.
A Familiar Path
Williams wouldn’t be the first player to take the long route to the NBA. Countless former college stars — from Draymond Green to Jalen Brunson — weren’t immediate first-round sensations, but made their names through patience, development, and determination.
Whether he returns to Texas Tech, finds a new college home, or continues to pursue professional opportunities abroad or in the G-League, one thing is clear: Darrion Williams’ basketball journey is far from over. But for now, the NBA dream may have to wait.
As fans, scouts, and programs await his next move, one thing remains true — all eyes will be on what Williams decides next.
