UCLA women’s basketball picks up four-star recruit Jada Williams for class of 2023
UCLA women’s basketball scored the commitment of class of 2023 four-star guard Jada Williams on Monday. Williams is so far the Bruins’ only commitment in the class of 2023 and just the second recruit in the 2021, 2022 and 2023 recruiting classes. (Lauren Man/Assistant Photo editor)
By Francis Moon
March 30, 2021 1:04 p.m.
Less than a week after their unexpected early end to the season, the Bruins are gearing up for the future.
Four-star point guard Jada Williams announced her decision to commit to the UCLA women’s basketball program Monday morning by posting a video to her Instagram featuring shots of her in Westwood and on the Pacific Coast wearing Bruin gear.
“I promised my (grandfather) that I would choose a school that would not only be a great fit for me on the court but also help me develop into the person I want to become,” Williams said before revealing her choice. “A program that would help build my character and also help strengthen my walk with the Lord. … There is one team and one program that stands out the most.”
The 5-foot-6 guard from Kansas City, Missouri, is ranked 13th in the nation for her class by ESPN. Williams, who received Division I offers as early as middle school, chose the Bruins over Arkansas, Baylor, Missouri, Notre Dame and Texas, according to ESPN.
After freshman guard Dominique Darius reclassified to enroll early this season, the Bruins currently have no recruits in the 2021 or 2022 recruiting classes, while Williams becomes their first addition in the class of 2023. UCLA will be losing three seniors this year, including projected top WNBA pick Michaela Onyenwere.
As a sophomore at Blue Springs High School in Blue Springs, Missouri, Williams averaged 19.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. The guard earned First Team All-State honors after leading her team to a second consecutive district championship.
247 Sports’ recruiting analyst Gene Swindoll called the point guard “the kind of basketball player every coach in America wants on their team,” while praising the high school sophomore’s work ethic and exceptional athletic ability. Williams’ most recent ESPN player evaluation calls her a “jet-quick, confident floor leader with a scoring punch.”
Graduating senior forward Lauryn Miller – who is from Kirkwood, Missouri – referenced their home state by tweeting, “Passing the torch! Gotta keep MO in those 4 letters.” Onyenwere called Williams “such a great addition to our family” while sophomore guard Charisma Osborne joked that she may have to stay a fifth year in 2023 so she can play with the new recruit.
Former Bruins such as Earl Watson and Jordin Canada, as well as NBA All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, also congratulated Williams on her commitment.
With four of the five top minutes-earners this season being upperclassmen, the announcement helps fill out a roster that currently features three freshmen and no incoming recruits in 2021 or 2022.
