Meanstreets guard Williams Displays Major Character and High-Major Game

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

July 18, 2007 – If college coaches in attendance at the recently completed Nike Peach Jam are looking for true student-athletes for their basketball programs, then they should look no further than Meanstreets guard and Gary, Indiana native Phillip Williams.

Williams is a rarity these days in that character, discipline and academics take precedent over how wicked his crossover dribble is or how wet his high arching jumper is. You see Williams is a throwback type of player and young man. He attributes his successes on and off the court, as well as, his development and maturity as a young man to his parents.

“If it wasn’t for my parents I wouldn’t have the things I have or be the young man I am today,” state Williams. Phillip’s approach to life is clearly the result of his upbringing and that can be attributed to his parents Don and Patricia Williams.

“Character is very important to us and we’ve instilled that into Phillip, so that he makes proper choices in life away from the basketball floor,” remarked the elder Williams.

The multi-skilled Williams is receiving interest from both high and mid-major schools.

“I am very appreciative and grateful for my mom and dad,” exclaimed Phillip who also enjoys running track and carries a 200+ average in bowling.

Being a well rounded young man off the court bodes well for Williams on the court also. Playing the two-guard for Meanstreets during the AAU/travel team summer circuit has allowed him to develop a consistent outside shot; something he is able to get off with regularity despite being more of a true point and standing at just 5’11 and weighing 170 pounds.

Furthermore, Phillip combines a deft handle with quickness, athleticism and a court savvy typically unseen in players these days, especially on the high school level.

Colleges such as Oregon, Iowa, Stanford, Illinois State, Howard, Lehigh and High Point have all shown varying levels of interest, but none have offered at this point.

“I like to run a team, be the floor general and hit the open shot when its there,” exclaimed Williams, who led his Westside High team to a 14-7 record and a playoff birth last season. Phillip displayed a multifaceted skill set, which led to averages of 14 points, six assists, five rebounds and four steals per game.

The wide-open style of AAU basketball isn’t the most conducive to his style, but he kept it all in perspective and didn’t let that deter him from displaying his game. While not being counted on for much scoring, Williams displayed his quicks, point guard acumen, dribbling ability and solid defense in all of the Meanstreets contests, especially on the screen and roll.

“That’s what I do; I love to get my teammates involved and be a leader out there for my team”, he said.

Phillip Williams’ high basketball IQ bodes well for him on the court. His humble nature, superior character and overall intelligence will bode well for him in the game of life, attributes that are too often forgotten once the ball stops bouncing.