Holy crap - looks like we are looking at a kid from NYC
NYC Guard Gaining Credibility
Mike Libert
NYCHoops.net Staff Writer
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Averaging 20 points and 13 rebounds in the rough and tough PSAL Brooklyn "AA" would normally have a player talked about as one of the best in New York City, but 6'3" guard Gerald Williams (George Westinghouse '16) is still primarily flying under the radar.
M. Libert
Gerald Williams
That may not be the case for much longer though as his high level play is starting to draw college coaches in to the Brooklyn school.
Big numbers this year have led Williams into becoming one of the top players in the PSAL, and it's his versatility on the court that leaves Warriors head coach Everett Kelley to say that Williams does just about everything for Westinghouse.
"The games we have played well in we have been able to have him play on the ball a bit, while also playing him inside as well," Kelley said. "He is really comfortable playing with his back to the basket, but he can face up and shoot the jumper as well."
If anything Kelley says, they need to find more of a way to get him out of positions to where Williams is having to beat 2 or 3 defenders because he feels is causes him to wear out physically.
Williams though enjoys the attention he receives on the court. He says he thrives on drawing the double teams, feeling it makes him step up his game, and he also loves the fact that he is able to play all over the floor, but he does have a favorite spot.
"I can play anywhere, I am comfortable playing anywhere my teams needs me," Williams stated. "I do like playing inside though because I love getting rebounds and using my strength to help the team."
He may do a lot for George Westinghouse, but this spring and summer on the AAU circuit, he may be given a chance to play at just one spot and shine there as he will be playing on the Nike EYBL circuit with Massachusetts powerhouse Expressions.
Last year playing 16u with Expressions, he felt like he began to grow as a player, understanding and learning the defensive side of the game more, something that Williams feels has helped him become who he is now as a player.
"My coach always stressed defense last year, so I came in and played a lot of defense, and going into the EYBL I am looking forward to showing that off as well as the other parts of my game," Williams explained.
While he's looking forward to the summer, Williams also believes that this Westinghouse team can do special things, and says that he thinks the best is yet to come from this group.
His excellent play has led the Warriors to become a contender in the Brooklyn "AA" and it has also drawn college coaches into the Brooklyn gym where Kelley says numerous visitors have recently come to watch his budding star.
"Florida International has been in, Penn State and Fordham as well, and Siena was here," Kelley said about the schools who have visited Westinghouse to see Williams.
Hofstra is another school that Kelley says have shown interest in Williams, but he says that most of the colleges have said that they are wanting to see more before they pull the trigger on an offer, which is fine for Williams who each day says he goes out to prove to everyone that he is among the best in Brooklyn, and New York City overall.
"I want to be one of the best overall players around, and I work hard every day to try to get to that point. It's exciting and I am looking forward to the future."