NORFOLK, Va. -- Norfolk State men's basketball head coach Robert Jones looked home for his first signing of the 2025 offseason recruiting cycle, signing guard Ryan Williams Jr. earlier this week.  

Williams and Jones are both Queens, N.Y. products. The Spartans continue to maintain a strong connection with the Big Apple, with both of the program's Lou Henson Award winners coming from New York: Kyle O'Quinn (2011-12) and Brian Moore Jr. (2024-25). 

Williams spent the first two seasons of his collegiate career at Monroe Community College, becoming a dependable floor general providing value at both ends of the court. The sophomore guard averaged 11.9 points and 6.1 rebounds last year, shooting 44.9 percent from the field. 

A proven winner, Williams led Monroe to a 26-8 record during the 2024-25 season. The Mustangs won the East District Championship, advancing to the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division I Tournament.  

Monroe kept the momentum going, winning its first-round matchup before falling to South Plains in the second round. Williams played a pivotal role in the 79-78 opening-round victory, recording 16 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. He also delivered the key pass in overtime to set up the game-winning dunk with 12 seconds to play. 

Norfolk State comes off another historic season, winning the 2024-25 MEAC Tournament and Regular Season Championships. The Spartans made their fourth-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament, with three coming during Jones' time at the helm. 

For complete coverage of Norfolk State Athletics, please follow the Spartans on social media at @nsuspartans (X), /NorfolkStateAthletics (Facebook), @NSUAthletics (Instagram), @nsuathletics (YouTube) or visit the official home of Norfolk State Athletics at nsuspartans.com.