Malea Williams:
Photo Courtesy of @88gigs Twitter Account
Number: 3
Height: 6’4
Class: Freshman
Position: Forward
Hometown: Georgetown, Ky
Rankings:
- 5th Best Player in the State of Kentucky
Accolades:
- Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches Region 11 POY
- Finalist for Miss Kentucky Basketball
Finished her career with over 1,300 points and 1,100 rebounds.
As a senior, Williams averaged 19.6ppg, 13.6 rpg, 2.1apg and 1.8spg.
Coach Walz: “Malea brings a unique skill-set as she is able to knock down the 3-point shot from the trail position at the post and adds a presence as a shot blocker on the defensive end.”
Breakdown: Malea is a potential defensive anchor for Coach Walz and the Louisville women’s basketball team. Williams might not block every shot, but she will definitely alter them. Malea Williams is an athletic 6’4 post player, that is light and shifty enough to play the wing position. Williams is oozing potential. She’s a great rebounder, who not only rebounds her area, but uses her long arms to rebound outside of her area as well. For as much of a presence Williams is on defense, she has just as much presence on the offensive side of the ball as well. Malea can score from all 3 areas on the court (beyond the arc, mid-range, and in the paint). What’s really impressive about Williams’ game is her ability to knock down the 3 ball, but also put the ball on the floor and get to the basket.
My Take: Malea Williams will redshirt this year. I believe the extra year to get into the playbook and the practice time will really benefit both Williams and Louisville long-term. Malea in the years to come could factor into being a more athletic Kylee Shook, with her ability stretch the floor on offense and protect the paint on defense.
