Former Texas Tech forward Darrion Williams was one of the biggest names in the transfer portal after withdrawing from the NBA Draft earlier this week.
ESPN's Jeff Borzello touted Williams as the fifth-best player in the transfer portal, and the third-best player still available behind just star guards RJ Luis and PJ Haggerty.
The 6-foot-6 Williams was long rumored to be in talks with several power conference schools, with fellow Big 12 programs Kansas and BYU rumored to be in the mix, along with the Big Ten's Ohio State. The Field of 68's Rob Dauster even said that Kansas would be the best fit for Williams, who could be a key piece alongside incoming star freshman Darryn Peterson.
However, news broke on Thursday that Williams picked his landing spot on the East Coast, and with a program that's rebuilding with a new head coach.
BREAKING: Texas Tech transfer Darrion Williams, one of the top players in the portal, has committed to NC State, he told @On3sports.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 22, 2025
The 6-6 junior picks Will Wade over Kansas.
Averaged 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this season.https://t.co/S1tFtHIr7h pic.twitter.com/y0xsVuhVAe
Williams chose to move to NC State to play for the Wolfpack's new head coach, Will Wade.
While Texas Tech's NIL pockets were deep, the pickup is a huge financial win for NC State as they look to rebuild their program.
Williams' year-end stats saw him average 15.5 points and 5.5 rebounds for the Red Raiders, finishing second in both statistical categories behind star forward JT Toppin.
While the option to return to Texas Tech was always an option, Williams appeared to have no bad blood towards Red Raider fans.
"Thank you tech for everything," Williams wrote. "I wouldn't trade these last two years for anything, Lubbock is a second home to me and will always have a special place in my heart."