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ISLAND BOY: Williams the Next Big Thing at Ball
Galveston Ball’s Jonah Williams has burst onto the scene this offseason as one of the biggest recruits in Texas for the class of 2025.
The talented sophomore was the District MVP last year and since the end of the season has already picked up offers from schools like Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Oregon, LSU, USC, Ohio State, and others. Williams also earned a 4-star rating by several recruiting services.
“The recruiting process has been good so far. I know someday I will have to say no to a lot of these school’s so that’s stressful, but it’s truly a blessing to be in this spot,” he said.
Though many see Williams as just a high-caliber football player, the Ball star also is a good baseball prospect that could have MLB Draft potential. Playing centerfield for the Tornadoes this year, he batted .474 with 28 singles, 10 doubles, and 5 triples.
“It’s just a blessing," he said. "Not everyone can play two sports at a higher level.”
Jonah’s stardom is on the rise, but in Galveston County -- the Williams' name is known throughout the Island.
Jonah’s older brother, Nick, was drafted in the second round of the 2012 MLB Draft and made his debut with the Phillies in 2017. He is now playing with the White Sox. Williams' other brother, Seth, was the QB for the Tornadoes this year and also plays baseball.
So what’s it like growing up with a family full of athletes?
“There has been a lot of competition,” he said. “I just use it for fuel and not get caught slacking. It’s good knowing they're there to motivate me and compete with me day in and day out.”
Galveston Ball has been home to some elite athletes like NFL stars Charles Alexander, Kimble Anders, Eric Hill, Patrick Bates, Casey Hampton, Derrick Pope and Mike Evans; NBA player Damon Jones and MLB pitcher Brandon Backe. Jonah Williams looks to be the next on the list, but doesn’t want to be the only G-County player to reach stardom.
“I just want to thank God for the position I’m in but I want everyone around me to eat and succeed too, not just myself,” he said. “That’s the main goal, not just me but everybody in Galveston County.”
Williams will be visiting Texas, Texas A&M, Florida and Oklahoma this summer. The rising Junior is primed for a big season next fall, watch out for him on the gridiron.
THE PLAYMAKERS: Hitters, Hoops, and Recruits powered by UTMB Health
The South Houston area is loaded with talented athletes who give it their all in their respective fields of play.
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers, powered by UTMB Health, where we’re highlighting five standouts of the Houston area. Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week!
Will Cianfrini (2024)--Galveston Ball (Football/Basketball)
Tornadoes WR Will Cianfrini is coming off a stellar Fall season, leading the team in receiving scores to earn himself a spot on the first-team, all-district honors list. He is gaining attention from recruiters, as he prepares for his upcoming senior season at Galveston Ball.
Moving from turf to hardwood, the 6-foot-5 junior plays shooting guard on a Ball team that currently holds the No. 3 spot in a competitive District 18-5A. With the playoffs right around the corner, Cianfrini will look to be an instrumental piece during the Tornadoes' potential run in the postseason.
Jeremiah Scoby (2025)--Dickinson (Football)
Twitter Handle: @jeremiah_scoby
This 6-foot-3 tight end enjoyed a breakout season for the Gators, making 30 receptions for 464 yards with three touchdowns as a sophomore. With an impressive stat line like that, it is clear Scoby will be one of the key figures of Dickinson football moving forward.
Furthermore, Scoby has already received two offers to play on the collegiate level. One from Texas State, and one from NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, at Colorado University. With two more years left in his high school career, the sky is the limit for the young Gator product.
Hailey Golden (2023)--Pearland (Softball)
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Golden was tremendous for Pearland softball a year ago, playing a significant role in the team’s run to the Regional Finals in the 2022 UIL-6A postseason. This Spring should be no different.
The Oilers’ all-State outfielder will look to run it back in 2023 in her swan-song season. Expect big things from Golden, before she moves on to Texas A&M Softball next year.
Alec Belter (2024)--Clear Springs (Basketball)
Throughout the Winter season, Belter has been the straw that stirs the drink for Clear Springs basketball. At 6-foot-5, this combo guard is leading the Chargers to the postseason. Springs is currently tied for first in the challenging District 24-6A.
After earning first-team, all-district and Newcomer of the Year honors last year with his clutch play and solid defense, Belter will look to continue building his resume, as he hopes to be a catalyst for Clear Springs in their imminent appearance in the playoffs.
Chardel Terrell (2025)--Clear Brook (Girls Basketball)
Clear Brook girls basketball is dominating the 24-6A with an undefeated 10-0 record in their district. This feat was accomplished, in no small part, due to the efforts of the three-headed monsters of sophomores, which features Chardel Terrell, Kamryn McLaurin, and Rezia Castillo.
Terrel has been integral to Clear Brook’s offense, averaging 11 points per game while adding some strength on defense. Expect this young baller to help lead her team on a deep playoff run in the coming weeks.
Our specialists recognize the importance of being able to maintain an active lifestyle and whether you’re looking to address a joint injury, receive prompt treatment for a concussion, or simply improve your overall athletic performance, UTMB Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine is here to help.