It has been a true breakout year for Derek Williams. During this time, the 6’5” wing of Team Hali and Waukesha North High School has emerged as one of the top prospects in Wisconsin’s 2028 class. 

The great breakout play of Williams started in his sophomore season. During this he averaged 16.3 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game to earn second team all-conference honors. His play only grew during the grassroots season with Team Hali which included him being named a top standout at the 16U level of the NY2LA Sports Invitational tournament. Then more recently this month, he was named one of the top players at the NY2LA Junior/Senior Showcase as well as this second best prospect at the 2028 level of the event.

Even with all of this over the past year, this has not translated yet to the recruitment of Williams. As the junior has yet to see his recruitment start up even while being among the top prospects in Wisconsin’s 2028 class.  

The game and skills of Williams have only continued to grow as he continues to show greater upside while already being a highly impactful player. He already has good physical tools standing at 6’5” with his strong build in addition to his athleticism and length but has now also seen his perimeter skills greatly improved. “A lot more comfortable handling the ball and consistently shooting threes compared to last season and better decision making off screens,” he said when asked about the development of his perimeter game. The junior has also shown improved quickness playing with the ball in addition to him being able to beat defenders with his physicality. With the improvements of his game, Williams can now beat defenders in a variety of ways including as a consistent outside shooter, from the mid-post, off the dribble, and bullying defenders around the paint. As his game continues to grow, he is now working on becoming a lockdown defender, knockdown shooter, and better decision making. 

Moving into his junior season with Waukesha North, Williams has a few personal goals he is looking to accomplish. This includes averaging a double-double, first team all-conference, and averaging a double-double. With all of the abilities of Williams, it is only a matter of time before college coaches start to look his way.