Elijah Williams Commits to Baylor: A New Era for the Bears
In a significant development for Baylor University’s basketball program, Elijah Williams, a top-35 recruit in the Class of 2026, has announced his commitment to the Bears. This marks a pivotal moment for Baylor as they secure their first commitment for the 2026 recruiting class.
Rising Star in the Class of 2026
Elijah Williams, a 6-foot-6, 200-pound small forward from TMI Episcopal in San Antonio, Texas, has been making waves in the basketball world. Playing for the JL3 Elite AAU program, Williams has showcased his skills on the EYBL circuit, averaging 19.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His shooting efficiency is notable, with a field goal percentage of 45.3% and a three-point shooting percentage of 41.2% (21-of-51) .
Ranked as the No. 35 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Williams is also recognized as the No. 1 player in Texas and the No. 8 small forward nationally . His impressive performances have earned him an invitation to the 2025 USA Men’s Junior National Team minicamp in San Antonio, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the basketball community.
Baylor’s Winning Culture and Coaching Staff
Williams’ decision to commit to Baylor is influenced by the program’s established winning culture and the leadership of head coach Scott Drew. In an interview with ZAGSBLOG, Williams expressed his admiration for Coach Drew, stating, “He is a great coach and a great man that will push me to be better on and off the court.” This sentiment underscores the importance of mentorship and development in Williams’ decision-making process.
Baylor’s reputation for player development and success in the NCAA Tournament likely played a role in Williams’ commitment. The Bears have consistently been a competitive force in college basketball, and Williams’ addition to the team is expected to contribute to their continued success.
A Family Legacy in Basketball
Elijah Williams is not the only basketball talent in his family. He is the son of Monty Williams, the former NBA Coach of the Year and current head coach of the Detroit Pistons. Monty’s extensive experience in the NBA, including stints with the New Orleans Pelicans and Phoenix Suns, has undoubtedly influenced Elijah’s basketball journey.
Monty Williams also serves as the head coach at TMI Episcopal, where Elijah plays. This unique dynamic allows for a close-knit relationship between father and son, both on and off the court. Monty’s guidance and expertise provide Elijah with invaluable insights into the game, further enhancing his development as a player.
What Elijah Brings to Baylor
Elijah Williams is expected to bring a versatile skill set to Baylor’s lineup. Describing himself as a “three-level scorer,” Williams possesses the ability to impact the game from various areas on the floor. His proficiency in scoring, combined with his rebounding and playmaking abilities, makes him a well-rounded player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Williams’ commitment to Baylor adds depth to the Bears’ roster and provides Coach Drew with a talented forward who can make an immediate impact. His scoring ability and basketball IQ will be assets to the team as they aim for continued success in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Looking Ahead
Elijah Williams’ commitment to Baylor is a significant milestone for both the player and the program. It marks the beginning of a promising chapter in Baylor’s basketball history and sets the stage for future successes. As Williams continues to develop his skills and contribute to the Bears’ success, he embodies the program’s commitment to excellence and player development.
In the coming years, Baylor fans can look forward to witnessing Elijah Williams’ growth and contributions on the court. His journey serves as a testament to the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent and its dedication to fostering the development of its players.
As the 2026 recruiting class begins to take shape, Elijah Williams’ commitment to Baylor stands out as a beacon of promise and potential for the Bears. His decision underscores the program’s appeal and sets a positive tone for future recruiting efforts.
