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1. Darrion Williams back to Texas Tech + more fifth-years

Reunions are always fun, and Texas Tech is hoping to have a lot of that next season with NC State transfer forward Darrion Williams back in the fold.

The school officially announced his signing on Friday.

Williams, who led NC State in scoring as a senior, is seeking a fifth-year of eligibility and could see a path through the Colorado ruling, or putting his name in a state case.

If he plays next season, he immediately raises the ceiling of Texas Tech. Two years ago, Williams thrived under Grant McCasland, averaging 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists. He and JT Toppin also combined for the second-best offensive rating of a duo in the country.

Williams has also really improved his shot since that season, raising his 3-point percentage by over 6%.

If Toppin is able to come back for postseason play (he’s nursing a torn ACL from last year), Texas Tech’s lineup is going to be a load to deal with. Cruz Davis, Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, Williams, Jamichael Stillwell and Toppin, plus DK Spear, Josiah Moseley and Damarion Dennis is as good a top eight as you’ll find.

More fifth-year news:

• South Dakota center Cameron Fens committed to UNC (granted 5th year in Tennessee). He’ll provide even more frontcourt depth for the Tar Heels to go with internationals Sayon Keita and Alexandros Samodurov.

• Miami Ohio forward Antwone Woolfolk (9.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg) will return for his fifth year.

2. Georgia, Marquette pick up 2027 commits

It was a big weekend on the recruiting trail, and two top commits made their college decision.

Let’s start with class of 2027 guard/wing Justin Wise, who announced his commitment to Georgia.

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