Junior guard Jada Williams has emerged as a pivotal player for the Iowa State Cyclones women’s basketball team this season, significantly influencing their performance in college basketball. While much attention has focused on teammate Audi Crooks, Williams’ contributions have been equally impactful, showcasing her skills on the court.
Williams began her basketball journey at La Jolla Country Day School in San Diego, California, where she averaged 13.1 points per game during her senior year. Following high school, she committed to the University of Arizona, where she made a notable impact as a freshman, starting in 28 of 34 games and averaging 9.5 points per game. Her achievements earned her a spot on the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team.
During her time at Arizona, Williams experienced both triumph and disappointment. The team reached the 2024 NCAA March Madness, defeating Auburn in the first-four matchup but losing to sixth-seeded Syracuse in the first round. The following season saw Williams named to the 2025 Nancy Lieberman Point Guard of the Year Award Watchlist. Despite a strong performance, Arizona did not qualify for March Madness that year, instead participating in the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament, where they lost to Northern Arizona.
On March 24, 2025, Williams announced her decision to enter the transfer portal, where she was ranked as a four-star prospect and the 93rd-best transfer in the class. Just nine days later, she committed to Iowa State, setting the stage for a transformative season.
Williams’ Transformation at Iowa State
In her first season with the Cyclones, Williams has made a significant impact, averaging 15.2 points and 7.7 assists per game. Her assist average is particularly striking, as she previously averaged just 2.9 assists while at Arizona. Williams reached a career high with a remarkable 44-point performance against Cincinnati, complemented by eight assists and a game score of 38.8.
Williams’ playing style has evolved at Iowa State, where she has flourished in a system that promotes ball movement and teamwork. Described as reminiscent of basketball greats like Allen Iverson and Kyrie Irving, her dribbling skills and on-court finesse have made her a standout player. Her ability to navigate through defenders and create scoring opportunities is a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Her scoring efficiency has also seen improvement this season. At Iowa State, she averages 1.6 more shots per game compared to her last season at Arizona, reflecting the opportunities created by the team’s ball movement. While her shooting percentages may not seem extraordinary at first glance—30% from beyond the arc and 42% on field goals—her effort and tenacity in seeking scoring chances set her apart.
Williams’ scoring has notably surged following her standout game against Cincinnati. Over the last ten games, she has maintained an impressive average of 21.3 points per game, a significant increase from her overall season average.
As the Cyclones navigate the season, Williams is one of several talented juniors on the roster. Fans are hopeful she will choose to return for her senior season, further solidifying her legacy at Iowa State.
In conclusion, Jada Williams’ transition to Iowa State has not only elevated her individual performance but has also significantly influenced the team dynamic. Her ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment demonstrates her potential to become one of the most influential players in college basketball.
