Solon native Jimmie Williams chases NBA dreams with Ohio State move

Williams, a 6-foot-5 guard coming off a breakout season at Duquesne, has committed to transfer to Ohio State and immediately join the Buckeyes' main rotation.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 9:38am

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A fractured, geometric painting in shades of navy, crimson, and gold depicting the silhouette of a basketball player in motion, conceptually representing the raw athleticism and professional aspirations of Jimmie Williams.A cubist interpretation of a basketball player's explosive movements captures the dynamic energy and raw potential of Solon native Jimmie Williams as he chases his NBA dreams at Ohio State.Solon Today

Solon native Jimmie Williams, a 6-foot-5 guard, has committed to transfer from Duquesne to Ohio State University. After a breakout season at Duquesne, Williams said the staff, facilities, and proximity to home at Ohio State convinced him to make the move. He hopes local fans watching him play for the Buckeyes this season will 'see an NBA player' in his game.

Why it matters

Williams' transfer to Ohio State represents a homecoming for the Solon native, who now has the opportunity to showcase his talents in front of a larger audience as he pursues his NBA dreams. His decision to join the Buckeyes' program also highlights the continued pipeline of talent flowing from the Solon area to major college basketball programs.

The details

Jimmie Williams, a 6-foot-5 guard, is coming off a breakout season at Duquesne University where he emerged as one of the team's top players. After visiting Columbus last week, Williams decided to transfer to Ohio State University and will immediately join the Buckeyes' main rotation. Williams cited the coaching staff, facilities, and proximity to his hometown of Solon as key factors in his decision to make the move.

  • Williams played the 2025-26 season at Duquesne University.
  • Williams visited Ohio State University last week.
  • Williams has committed to transfer to Ohio State University for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

The players

Jimmie Williams

A 6-foot-5 guard from Solon, Ohio who is transferring from Duquesne University to Ohio State University to pursue his NBA dreams.

Ohio State University

The NCAA Division I basketball program that Jimmie Williams has committed to transfer to for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

Duquesne University

The NCAA Division I basketball program that Jimmie Williams played for during the 2025-26 season, where he had a breakout year.

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What they’re saying

“I hope the fans in Columbus and around Ohio State see an NBA player in me this season.”

— Jimmie Williams

What’s next

Williams will join the Ohio State basketball team for the 2026-27 season and will look to showcase his skills as he pursues his NBA dreams.

The takeaway

Jimmie Williams' decision to transfer from Duquesne to Ohio State represents an exciting opportunity for the Solon native to play in front of a larger audience and take the next step towards realizing his professional basketball aspirations. His homecoming to Ohio State also highlights the continued pipeline of talent flowing from the Solon area to major college programs.