At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and underrated, and today’s edition will highlight Julian Williams of Northwood Temple.
We’ve seen Williams in numerous settings, including at our All-American Camp, where we stated, “Finishing up, we look at a player that arguably stood out as the most enticing long-term prospect on this team, Julian Williams. He’s a long, wiry forward/post prospect with skill, toughness, and solid offensive versatility. Next in his development process is working on his consistency as a three-point shooter, as the added wrinkle would make him even tougher for opponents to contain. Coach Potosnakk on Williams: “Julian possesses excellent ball skills for his size and position. He finished well in traffic at the rim and has the ability to become a terrific offensive rebounder with his length and size. Daily shot development will play a major role in his ability to move his game to the perimeter as he works towards his goals for the next level. His best basketball is in the future. Learning from while getting onto the next play without worry or confrontation is vital in his approach to the game.” Williams enjoyed a quality showing at camp, averaging 14 PPG, and should ultimately become a vital piece for Northwood Temple.”
Since then, Williams has arguably emerged as the Eagles’ most consistently productive piece on a night-to-night basis. Unlike most programs, Northwood Temple was able to schedule and play 35 games, giving us a pretty strong sample size for their big man. Williams is a smart, fundamental, straightforward two-way player with size, post polish, and soft touch around the basket. He can knock down jumpers as needed, but finds the most scoring success from the low block and through second-chance opportunities. Williams runs the floor well and positions himself properly to alter shots and make his presence felt on the glass. He posted nightly averages of 15.8 PPG and 8.1 RPG while shooting an extremely high percentage from the floor for a state championship-caliber team. Expect to see his recruitment continue to develop, as Williams definitely has the makings of a scholarship-level prospect.