Champion News
Champion Alumni, Ariyon "AJ" Williams, Signs Professional Basketball Contract to Play Overseas
Champion Alumni, Ariyon "AJ" Williams, first came to Champion Christian College with the goal of playing professional basketball. Recently, AJ signed his first professional contract in Ireland with the reigning league champion, the Limerick Celtics, 1st Division.
Ariyon “AJ” Williams played as a guard at Lakeview Centennial High School. After graduating, AJ entered as a freshman at Champion Christian College, starting his journey to becoming the knockdown shooter he is today and ultimately signing with the Limerick Celtics.
To fully appreciate this achievement, it's essential to recognize the dedication and hard work behind it. AJ's continuous improvement reflects his efforts off the court. During the off-season, he honed his three-point shot, reviewed game footage, and spent countless hours in the gym to prepare for upcoming games. AJ is admired for his relentless drive to enhance his skills and improve his abilities.
Head Coach Mo Capaci also highlighted AJ’s journey:
"In my 12 years of coaching, I have never had a player show as much growth on and off the court as AJ. He is like a little brother to me, and inspires me as a coach. He went from playing for the developmental team, to becoming the Southwest Region Player of the Year, and now signing professionally to play overseas. He represents what Champion is all about, and I could not be more proud of him!"
On the court, AJ averaged 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Over the years, he has earned accolades such as 1st Team All-American and Regional Player of the Year twice. His success extends beyond basketball; with a degree in Sport Management and plans to be baptized this coming weekend, AJ exemplifies the true spirit of a Christian Student Athlete.
Assistant Coach Brendan Hatfield praised AJ's dedication:
"I have had the pleasure of coaching AJ for 3 seasons, and he has been by far the hardest working player I have coached. AJ was blowing my phone up nearly every day to get in the gym to work out, and all through his work proved to be one of the greatest Champion Tigers in history, as well as leaving a legacy at the NCCAA level. I am so proud of the player AJ has become, but even more proud of the man he has developed into. I cannot wait to continue to watch his growth, even if it's 15 hours away."
Concluding with a word from AJ Williams:
Words can't explain how thankful I am for you. You gave me an opportunity when nobody else believed in me. You took me in with open arms and allowed me to grow into the man and athlete I am today. Champion not only allowed me to grow as a player but also as a human. I came there just a kid from Dallas, Texas, only wanting to play basketball, not knowing that in the next five years, I would grow so much as a person. To the countless teammates l've had, thank you. To all the teachers and faculty members I had or encountered, thank you. To every coach I had, thank you. Each and every one of you instilled some form of positivity in me, and for that, I am forever grateful. Spiritually, Champion helped me grow my faith in God and see many things in a different light. Champion isn't just a school; it's a family. Champion holds a special place in my heart, and I'm forever grateful. - AJ Williams
Champion Christian College eagerly anticipates the future accomplishments of Alumni, Ariyon "AJ" Williams.