Derrick Webb, Staff Writer
RIPLEY — For quite some time now, Ripley’s Azyiah Williams has been one of the area’s best, and most underrated, guards in Southern Ohio.
Williams arguably hasn’t gotten the credit she’s deserved. She wasn’t even voted as an all-district player last year in the Southwest District.
That’s despite averaging 23.5 points, five rebounds and 3.5 steals per game.
But when you’re good enough to play at the college level, no matter the postseason awards you’ve earned, college scouts will find you.
Williams’ never-ending work ethic has paid off. On Tuesday, the incoming senior announced her commitment to the University of Rio Grande.
“I chose Rio because the minute I stepped onto campus, it felt like home,” Williams said. “I instantly clicked with the players and coaches.”
Williams’ stingy style of play will only help her earn playing time at the collegiate level. Her never-ending motor has helped her become the player she is today.
But she admits there’s still plenty of room to improve before she arrives on campus.
“My family, teammates and coaches mean everything to me,” Williams said. “They have all become family and have pushed me to be where I am today. To be a college athlete means that I have to continue becoming a better athlete and an all-around person in general. I need to be always ready to go and help out wherever the help is needed.”
As a junior, Williams eclipsed the 1,000 point club and helped the Blue Jays finish 13-10 overall.
Those accomplishments are noteworthy but Williams still knows there’s business to attend to when she steps onto the court as a senior.
And she’ll be doing do without a college commitment having to be made.
“I plan on helping my team to be successful on the court again,” Williams said. “We plan on finishing in the top of the league again this year.”
COVER PHOTO CREDIT: Evan Dennison/The Maysville Ledger-Independent