11 things to know about Zion Williamson
It’s almost decision day for basketball recruiting phenom Zion Williamson. Here are 11 things to know about the nation’s top undecided recruit:
1. What school does Zion Williamson play for?
He attends Spartanburg Day School in Spartanburg. The school is private and competes in SCISA, the South Carolina Independent School Association. Outside of conference play, the Griffins compete nationally against top teams, including a recent showdown with Chino Hills (Calif.) in a game played on ESPN in Massachusetts.
2. What position does Zion Williamson play?
The recently minted McDonald’s All-American is a combo forward and can play the small or power positions. He described himself as a “point forward.” And he’s left-handed. He became a YouTube sensation because of his dunks.
3. What is Zion Williamson’s height and weight?
Williamson is 6-foot-6 and weighs 275 pounds. His weight and athleticism are a constant source of conversation. “He’s a truly astounding athlete — no player with his heft should be able to elevate like that,” Sports Illustrated recently wrote. And SB Nation said, “Williamson has the body of an NFL defensive lineman and the explosiveness of a young Dominique Wilkins.”
4. When is Zion Williamson committing?
He will announce his college decision at 8 p.m. Saturday at Spartanburg Day. The public is invited to attend Williamson’s announcement, which will be shown on ESPN2 before the Kansas and Baylor game.
5. What will the college choice be for Zion Williamson?
That’s what everyone wants to know. According a report, Williamson this week will be visited by coaches from four schools: Duke, South Carolina, North Carolina and Clemson. Williamson made unofficial visits to Clemson and South Carolina and official visits to North Carolina, Kentucky, Kansas and Duke. It has been rumored that those are his final six schools, but Williamson said he is still open to other programs.
6. What does the 247Sports Crystal Ball say?
The 247Sports Crystal Ball projections have been trending for Clemson. In fact, with the exception of one prediction from a Michigan writer, every pick made in recent weeks has been for the Tigers.
7. Why is Clemson the favorite to land Zion Williamson?
The Tigers have been recruiting Williamson longer than anyone, giving him his first scholarship offer following his ninth-grade year. Among other reasons, Williamson’s stepdad, Lee Anderson, played for Clemson and is close with the Tigers’ staff. The campus is also 70 miles, or about an hour, from his hometown.
8. Does South Carolina have a chance with Zion Williamson?
Maybe. He’s visited the Gamecocks several times, and with Williamson, the Gamecocks are a threat to make another Final Four. Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin and Gamecock great Alex English have made their pitches for Williamson to join USC. Fans also are still holding out hope, as a “We want Zion!” chant broke out more than once Tuesday at Colonial Life Arena during South Carolina’s 76-68 upset of No. 18 Kentucky. ESPN’s Paul Biancardi is one of the few “going for the upset” and saying USC will be Williamson’s choice.
9. Where and how does Zion Williamson rank nationally?
He’s a five-star prospect by all accounts. Williamson is rated as the No. 3 player in the country, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. Duke commits Cameron Reddish and R.J. Barrett are Nos. 1 and 2, respectively.
10. What are Zion Williamson’s stats?
Last season, as a junior, he averaged 36.8 points, 13.2 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2.5 blocks per game. He’s played in only four games as a senior because of an injury and is averaging 37.0 points and 16.5 rebounds. Unofficially, he has 2,652 points, according to MaxPreps.
11. What is the NBA outlook for Zion Williamson?
Most believe Williamson is a “one-and-done” player at whatever college he chooses, which would make him part of the 2019 NBA draft. Whether or not his game translates to the NBA level has been a hot topic since his ascension to national prominence. Most analysts agree his shooting, particularly his jump shot and outside shooting, need to improve ahead of the pros.
247Sports Director of Scouting Jerry Meyer called Williamson “the next Charles Barkley.” Wrote SI, “There are NBA dunk contests and guaranteed dollars in his future.”
247Sports analysis of Zion Williamson
“One of the most unique prospects in high school basketball, Zion Williamson emerged in the spring of 2016 as one of the best players and prospects in the 2018 class. Williamson has thick, but strong build that’s equipped with a long set of arms. He’s an explosive athlete that will catch you off guard if you’re watching for the first time. He’s quick off his feet and reacts quickly to plays.
Williamson is a very good rebounder, both in and out of his area, because of his combination of athleticism, strength, toughness and motor. Williamson plays hard on both ends. Offensively, he’s versatile, as he’ll face up defenders and drive the ball, play in the post and get out in transition.
The next step for him is to develop his long-range jump shot and continue to improve his ball handling skills.”
This story was originally published January 19, 2018 at 8:34 AM with the headline "11 things to know about Zion Williamson."