Big 12 Transfer Darrion Williams Returning to College: Will Kansas Land Him?

Kansas’ top transfer target, Darrion Williams, recently announced his intentions to return to college and withdraw from the NBA Draft.

Texas Tech's guard Darrion Williams (5) celebrates his 3-pointer against Kansas in a Big 12 basketball game, Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, at United Supermarkets Arena. | Annie Rice/Avalanche-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Texas Tech transfer Darrion Williams is withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and maintaining his collegiate eligibility, according to a report from Jon Rothstein.

Sources: Darrion Williams has officially withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft.

Williams — who averaged 15.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 3.6 APG last season at Texas Tech — is currently in the transfer portal.

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) May 20, 2025

Long before the Dame Sarr recruitment flipped upside down, it was well-known that Kansas was interested in the 2024-25 All-Big 12 First Team selection.

Now, the race to land Williams in the transfer portal begins.

An incoming senior, Williams was incredible this past season in Lubbock. He averaged 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for the Red Raiders.

While the California native entered the draft with hopes of raising his stock — outlets projected him as a late second-round pick — he did not fare very well at the NBA Draft Combine.

In addition to a zero-point outing at the combine’s 5-on-5 scrimmages, Williams’ official measurements were alarming to scouts. He was listed at 6-foot-4, boasting a 6-foot-6 wingspan, which isn’t ideal for a forward with his play style.

Williams made his decision more than a week before the May 28 withdrawal deadline.

A versatile player, Williams is a threat on the perimeter and around the rim. His lifetime slash line sits at 44.9%/37.9%/84.2%.

Despite his frame, he is a capable defender in the paint and averages 1.3 steals per game for his career.

He is keeping a return to TTU on the table, but that is very unlikely to transpire.

Williams would seamlessly slide into the Jayhawks’ lineup if he chooses KU, as the team needs a true four to start next to big man Flory Bidunga.

Not only is it a perfect fit, but adding a proven Big 12 star to Bill Self's squad would immediately position the Jayhawks among the best in the conference.

Kansas now enters a heavy-hitting race between NC State, Ohio State, and others for the lauded prospect.