Memphis signee Mikey Williams: "I really trust Penny"

Last month, Mikey Williams committed to the Memphis Tigers. The high school superstar stands 6-foot-2 and boasts a combined six million followers across social media (Instagram, TikTok, Twitter). His popularity on the internet has generated massive fame and plenty of dollars. According to On3, Williams has a NIL Valuation of $3.6 million, which ranks second in high school basketball, only behind his former AAU teammate Bronny James, the son of NBA mega-star LeBron James.

Over the weekend, I caught up with Williams to find out why he chose the Tigers.

“The coaching staff,” Williams replied. “I really trust Penny (Hardaway). I like the way they play and I think its the best fit for me.”

Mikey has a message for Memphis fans.

“We gonna come turn the city up!”

What they can expect from Williams?

“A dog, lead the team, and an exciting show,” he says.

Including Williams, Memphis has a seven-man class. Joining him is his high school teammate, four-star forward JJ Taylor (No. 56), four-star guard Ty-Laur Johnson (No. 67), four-star forward Ashton Hardaway (No. 119), three-star guard Carl Cherenfant (No. 133), three-star guard Ryan Forrest (No. 208), and three-star big man David Tubek (No. 267).

Williams ranks as the No. 24 overall prospect in the class of 2023, according to the On3 Consensus — the average ranking from all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the No. 4 overall combo guard in the country. 

Scouting Summary

“Mikey Williams is a strong framed guard whose shot-making ability and athletic explosion have brought him viral success,” On3’s Jamie Shaw wrote. “He has a good handle and is able to get into his spots in the half-court. He has an array of step-backs and fadeaways that help to create space. HIs motor and motivation are the question marks, never the talent. When he does turn it on, he is capable of carrying a game, you just never know when that will happen. It is fascinating to see how the crowd reacts to Williams.”