Tim Williams' long recruiting journey — which he traveled twice — has finally come to an end.
The Homewood-Flossmoor basketball player signed Monday with Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. This was after Williams had committed to play for Isiah Thomas and Florida International, but Thomas was fired and Williams decided to look elsewhere.
He said it was tough mentally to start over.
"It took so long to find a school and then you I find out I can't go there," Williams said. "It was tough on me, but my mom and dad helped me through it. They told me to be patient and that good things come to those who wait."
The 6-foot-7 Williams chose the Bulldogs and new coach Bennie Seltzer over Virginia Tech.
"Samford is is very concerned about you more than just basketball," Williams said. "They are concerned with you as a person and I think I will get a good education there."
Seltzer also signed two Florida players of the year in 6-foot-6 Clide Geffrard and 6-0 point guard Russel Wilson. The Bulldogs were 11-19 last season and Williams said he likes his chances to play right away.
"I think I will have an opportunity to contribute and make a difference," Williams said. "They play in a good conference (Southern Conference) and I am looking forward to playing there and am glad the recruiting (process) is over."
Williams was a Times first-team pick in both football and basketball. On the court, he averaged 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.3 blocks and 1.3 assists per game. He shot 65 percent from the field in helping lead H-F to the Class 4A Homewood-Flossmoor Regional title. Of Williams' 40 blocks, 14 came in the Vikings' last two playoff games.
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