New Jersey native Austin Williams looking to make an impact in first year at Rutgers
Over the last few months, Rutger’s men’s basketball has been busy adding to their roster. One avenue the Scarlet Knights turned to was the transfer portal, allowing them to add a New Jersey native in Austin Williams. After stints with Marist, Hartford, and Florida International University, Williams will now call Piscataway home.
After missing all of last season, due to injuries, Williams will be looking to build on his success at Hartford. During his time as a Hawk, the New Jersey native averaged 15.2 points and 5.7 rebounds a game. In 2021 he was named the Most Outstanding Player of the America East Tournament after recording 20 points and eight boards in the title-game victory over UMass-Lowell.
In his college career, Williams has made an impact by driving to the basket and creating chaos on defense. Against top-tier competition, he has also shown the ability to take his game to another level. That is a good sign for the Scarlet Knights.
Austin Williams (#20) is a 6'4 combo guard transferring to Rutgers from FIU. He last played in 21-22 for Hartford, after recovering from an injury last season. He averaged 16.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists a game pic.twitter.com/JszqFu57PW
— Joe Jackson (@joejacksonCBB) August 6, 2023
Additionally, Williams provides head coach Steve Pikiell with another option in the backcourt. The guard rotation will include Jeremiah Williams, Noah Fernandes, and Derek Simpson. However, if Williams can flash his Hartford form, Pikiell will have no trouble finding him playing time.
While his role is still to be determined, Rutgers has a talented player in Williams. He can provide a spark off the bench, and as long as he stays healthy, the Rutgers backcourt will be in good hands.
