Mikey Williams, a former Memphis basketball signee, will transfer to UCF and head coach Johnny Dawkins, he announced on Instagram Friday afternoon. The Knights are working on a plan to get Williams on the court this season, per a report by college basketball insider Trilly Donovan.
The 6-foot-3 guard never formally joined Memphis due to legal issues. He pleaded guilty to a single count of making criminal threats in connection to his nine gun-related felony charges on Nov. 30, per Fox 5 San Diego.
His charges stem from an incident at his (San Diego, Calif.) home back in March 2023. Williams allegedly shot at a moving car filled with six people—including three minors—as it was driving away from the house. If convicted, he could’ve possibly spent up to 30 years in state prison. The initial news release distributed to the public on April 12, 2023, states “there was a verbal argument about guests being asked to leave” and that Williams hit the car but nobody was hurt. His trial was scheduled for Dec. 14.
He instead is now in a plea deal where all his other charges will be dismissed, including five for assault with a deadly weapon and one for firing into an occupied vehicle. He’ll have to complete gun safety and anger management courses by his sentencing date—Aug. 12, 2024. Williams’ felony charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor if he completes the courses on time.
Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway stuck by Williams throughout his entire legal process. Most coaches probably wouldn’t have, which is why the 19-year-old drew tons of criticism for his decision to transfer from the Tigers. Hardaway, however, doesn’t hold any hard feelings or regrets.
”I’d do it again, to be very honest with you,” Hardaway said Wednesday. “That’s what I’m in this business for—to stick my neck out on the line for kids and young men and hope that they appreciate it.”
Fellow former Tiger JJ Taylor, Williams’ close friend and high school teammate, joined the social media star in the transfer portal Monday afternoon. Taylor had been absent from the Memphis program since Dec. 23. His next destination has yet to be announced.