2015’s edition of “Shaka Watch” is over and former VCU Head Coach Shaka Smart took the head coaching post at the University of Texas – Austin. One local impact that the story could potentially have is on L.C. Bird standout Kenny Williams III, who signed with VCU this winter.
Smart has been pursued every offseason since the Rams’ improbable run to the 2011 Final Four. One would think this information might have played a role in the decision making process for Williams, who built a strong relationship with Smart through the recruiting process. Williams always said that staying close to home was a priority.
Locally, questions began to swirl as soon as the news of Smart’s hiring broke nationally about whether Williams will stay or go and, if he was to de-commit, where he may land.
Williams’ twitter account still says “VCU Basketball Commit” and the young star understandably declined comment at this time.
Several sources via twitter have pointed out that the University of Virginia has a scholarship open for the upcoming year and, for that reason alone, it could be a potential landing spot should Williams go. The Cavaliers spent most of the season ranked in the top five in the nation and were ranked as high as number two. However, one would suppose it would depend on who VCU’s next head coach will be.
WRIC Channel 8’s sport casters Mitch Carr and Chip Brierre said that former VCU coaches Anthony Grant, Mike Rhoades, and Jeff Caple are candidates, along with Jeremy Ballard, a current assistant. Reports on NBC 12 stated that after a video conference with players, VCU athletic director Ed McLaughlin said that no current players expressed a desire to leave the program.
No matter where Williams land, the community will indubitably support and follow him. From a fan perspective, many locals would love to see him in the black and gold next season.
