Kedric Prince, IlliniGuys Director of Recruiting

June 25, 2024

RIVERSIDE, IL. — Lincoln Williams, an outstanding 6-foot-5 shooting guard from Kankakee, showcased his talent at the Riverside Brookfield High School shootout, not disappointing those in attendance. The four-star 2026 recruit displayed his skills in a matchup against Lemont High School, with Illinois assistant coach Tim Anderson watching closely.

Lincoln Williams courtesy Kedric Prince, IlliniGuys

Williams' jump shot was pure, and his ability to get past defenders was impressive. Unlike some players, Williams doesn't demand the ball; the game comes naturally to him.

When asked by IlliniGuys if he noticed Illinois in the stands watching him, Williams smiled and said, "Of course, they're good guys, too." He added, "Right now I have nine offers. Illinois, Arizona State, UNLV, Virginia Tech, and DePaul are the bigger schools."

Williams said he’s been to Champaign. "I was at the Nebraska game on February 4th, where Coach TA (Tim Anderson) offered me a scholarship. It was a great game, the atmosphere was wow... electric it was a great college game. I like all of the schools recruiting me, Illinois is my home state and they're showing me some love right now. If I do get a chance to do something big time, why not do it at home?"

Illinois is no longer just a steppingstone for recruits seeking other Power Five offers. Led by Brad Underwood, the program's assistant coaches are highly regarded. Tim Anderson is a well-known figure in Chicagoland basketball, and Orlando Antigua, formerly with Kentucky, is responsible for several All-Americans, including Illinois' Kofi Cockburn. Geoff Alexander, often flying under the radar, has been pivotal in securing downstate talent, including recent top-15 recruit Jeremiah Fears.

Williams is particularly impressed with Anderson. "Coach Tim is real, he keeps everything the main thing, and he's upfront and honest, so we know where we stand and what they think about us as players," Williams said.

As Williams considers his future, he is among many Illinois high school preps who now see playing for Illinois as a prestigious opportunity, putting them on the big stage.

Follow me on Twitter @KedPrince4 

email: KedIlliniGuys@gmail.com