Like Father, Like Son: Elijah Williams, Son of NBA Coach Monty Williams, Commits to Baylor
WACO, TX – The Baylor Bears men’s basketball program has landed a significant commitment for their 2026 recruiting class, securing four-star small forward Elijah Williams. The commitment carries an extra layer of prestige, as Elijah is the son of NBA legendary coach and former player, Monty Williams.
Elijah Williams, a 6-foot-6, 200-pound wing from TMI Episcopal in San Antonio, Texas, announced his decision to join Scott Drew’s highly successful program, marking the first pledge for the Bears’ 2026 class. His commitment is a major statement for Baylor, known for its consistent development of NBA-level talent and its recent national championship pedigree.
The appeal of playing under Coach Scott Drew was a significant factor in Williams’ decision. “I chose Baylor because of coach Scott Drew and the winning program he has created,” Williams told ZAGSBLOG. “He is a great coach and a great man that will push me to be better on and off the court.”
Elijah’s connection to professional basketball runs deep, with his father, Monty Williams, boasting a storied career as both an NBA player and a highly respected head coach. Monty Williams played nine seasons in the NBA and has coached for 17 years, including stints as head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, Phoenix Suns (leading them to the 2021 NBA Finals), and the Detroit Pistons. He currently coaches Elijah at TMI Episcopal, providing an invaluable resource for the young prospect’s development.
Elijah Williams brings a versatile skillset to Waco. He is described as a three-level scorer who loves to attack the basket and can shoot from beyond the arc. His experience playing on the EYBL circuit with JL3 Elite has showcased his scoring prowess, averaging nearly 20 points per game this past summer. He also prides himself on his defensive capabilities, stating he “can guard any position on the court.”
The commitment of a player with NBA genes and high-level coaching in his background is a testament to the strong relationships forged by the Baylor coaching staff and the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent. With Elijah Williams leading the way, the 2026 class is off to an excellent start, further solidifying Baylor’s standing as a national power in college basketball.
