5-Star Forward Darrion Williams Decommits from Texas Tech, Flips to South Carolina Gamecocks in Major Transfer Shake-Up

5-Star Forward Darrion Williams Decommits from Texas Tech, Flips to South Carolina Gamecocks in Major Transfer Shake-Up

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, 5-star forward Darrion Williams has officially decommitted from Texas Tech and announced he will transfer to the South Carolina Gamecocks for the upcoming season. The move marks one of the most significant off-season transfer flips in recent memory and provides an enormous boost to a surging South Carolina program under head coach Lamont Paris.

Williams, who averaged 11.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game last season, had originally committed to Texas Tech in April after entering the transfer portal from Nevada, where he began his collegiate career before transferring to Texas Tech for the 2023–24 season. A former Mountain West Freshman of the Year, the 6-foot-6 forward had become a key piece of the Red Raiders’ frontcourt and was widely expected to play a central role under newly appointed head coach Grant McCasland.

However, less than two months after reaffirming his intent to stay in Lubbock, Williams reversed course and revealed in a social media post Monday morning that he will instead join the Gamecocks.

> “After careful consideration, prayer, and discussions with my family and mentors, I’ve decided to decommit from Texas Tech and commit to the University of South Carolina,” Williams wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I’m excited for the future and ready to get to work with Coach Paris and my new teammates. #SpursUp”

A Game-Changer for South Carolina

For South Carolina, this is nothing short of a blockbuster acquisition.

The Gamecocks are coming off a strong 2024 campaign in which they finished 26–8 and returned to the NCAA Tournament, revitalizing a program that had languished in the lower tiers of the SEC for several years. Adding a talent like Williams is a signal that South Carolina is not just rebuilding — they’re reloading.

Coach Paris, entering his third season in Columbia, has made waves on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. Williams gives the Gamecocks a versatile, experienced, and battle-tested forward who can guard multiple positions and contribute immediately on both ends of the floor.

“We are thrilled to welcome Darrion to the Gamecock family,” Paris said in a statement. “He’s an elite competitor with a high basketball IQ, a relentless work ethic, and a team-first mentality. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to us as we take the next step forward.”

What Went Wrong at Texas Tech?

While neither Williams nor Texas Tech officials have provided detailed reasoning behind the decision to decommit, sources close to the situation suggest that fit, role clarity, and system preferences played significant roles in the late change.

Despite McCasland’s efforts to retain key players and build around a talented core, there have been whispers of uncertainty within the program following several high-profile departures and staff changes. Williams’ decision adds to a growing list of players leaving Texas Tech this offseason, sparking concern among fans about continuity heading into the 2025 season.

Texas Tech released a brief statement thanking Williams for his contributions and wishing him well.

> “We respect Darrion’s decision and appreciate the effort he gave while wearing the Red Raider jersey. We wish him nothing but success at South Carolina.”

Instant Impact Player

Williams’ decision to flip his commitment is about more than just headlines — it’s about impact. He’s a proven two-way player with a strong frame, an efficient scoring touch, and a knack for rebounding and playmaking that belies his position.

At Texas Tech last season, Williams shot nearly 45% from the field and over 38% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor, defend wings and forwards, and crash the glass makes him an ideal fit for the SEC’s bruising, up-tempo style.

Pairing him with returning stars like Meechie Johnson and Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina suddenly looks like a legitimate threat not only in the SEC but also nationally.

The Bigger Picture

In an era where the transfer portal has become as influential as high school recruiting, Williams’ flip underscores the power dynamics of modern college basketball. South Carolina, a program that just a few seasons ago was struggling to stay relevant, now has a real opportunity to become an SEC contender — and possibly more.

For Texas Tech, this is a significant blow. The Red Raiders now must scramble to fill the void left by Williams just weeks before summer workouts begin. While the portal remains open, few available players match Williams’ skill set or impact potential.

Looking Ahead

With Darrion Williams now headed to Columbia, the 2025 season has taken on a whole new tone for the Gamecocks. His arrival will elevate expectations — and for a fan base hungry for sustained success, that’s a very good thing.

Meanwhile, Texas Tech must regroup quickly if it hopes to keep pace in a loaded Big 12. McCasland will now be under pressure to pivot, either through late portal additions or internal development, to keep the Red Raiders competitive.

For now, all eyes turn to Williams — the newest Gamecock and the latest high-profile name to remind us all that in college basketball, the only constant is change.