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Elliot Williams leaving Duke basketball program
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Published: June 24, 2009
By Bill Cole
JOURNAL REPORTER
Elliot Williams, a 6-4 guard, has decided to leave Duke after one year because of a family medical situation, university officials said this morning.
Williams is expected to transfer to a school nearer his Memphis, Tenn., home. He is also expected to apply for a waiver of the NCAA's transfer rule so he can play immediately next season.
Sources in Durham said today that Williams' mother is ill. Memphis, Vanderbilt and Tennessee are considered the most likely destinations for Williams, the sources said.
The NCAA transfer rule requires a player to sit out for one season if he attends a major college or moves up a division.
Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke said in a prepared statement that he understood Williams' reason for leaving.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Elliot and his family," Krzyzewski said. "We fully support him in his efforts to be closer to them during this trying time.
"He is a good young man with an opportunity to become an outstanding player. We wish him well as he determines his future. He will always be a part of our program and we will always be in his corner."
Williams is the second player with returning eligibility to leave Duke. Gerald Henderson, a junior swingman last season, entered the NBA Draft and gave up his final college season.
Williams helped Duke late in the season when Krzyzewski changed the lineup after the team slumped slightly. Williams moved into the starting lineup for 11 of the last 12 games and helped Duke win the ACC Tournament championship and reach the NCAA Tournament's third round.
He averaged 4.2 points and 2.3 rebounds in 34 games.
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