Norfolk State University has welcomed a powerful new addition to its women’s basketball coaching staff, Asia Williams.
Head coach Jermaine Woods announced Monday that she has officially joined the Spartans as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.
Williams, a well-respected name in collegiate basketball circles, brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record in recruiting, and a reputation as a passionate leader.
Coach Woods said,
“I’m excited to welcome Asia to Spartan Nation for her return to collegiate basketball. She is a proven leader, visionary, and a respected recruiter in the women’s basketball community. She’s the perfect fit for our program, and we’re looking forward to her leadership.”
After a two-year hiatus from the sidelines, Williams expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for this next chapter in her coaching journey.
She said,
“I am incredibly excited to join the Norfolk State family and return to coaching. I am extremely grateful to Coach Woods for the opportunity and for believing in me. I look forward to working with these amazing student-athletes and contributing to the program’s continued success.”
A Decorated Playing Career And Recruiting Excellence
Williams first made a name for herself as an elite recruiter at the College of Charleston, where she signed the Colonial Athletic Association’s (CAA) No. 1-ranked recruiting class and the nation’s No. 47 class in 2021.
She later served at UNC Wilmington, where she recruited key talent and helped coach CAA award-winners, including Za’Nautica Downs and Carol-Anne Obusek.
Took a trip to the @WBHOF! Wonderful surprise to see my name etched in history.
— Asia Williams (@Coach_Asia) July 16, 2024
✨AAU All-American✨ pic.twitter.com/kyxhF9r3fO
Her resume also includes stints at Western Carolina, UNC Greensboro, LIU Brooklyn, and Appalachian State.
While at UNCG, Williams played a pivotal role in the program’s first 20-win season in a decade and helped the team earn a WNIT berth.
Her early coaching career began at Appalachian State, where she mentored standout forward Maryah Sydnor, who went on to earn All-Southern Conference and All-Sun Belt honors.
Before entering coaching, Williams excelled as a player at Wake Forest University.
As a senior, she led the Demon Deacons in assists (145) and averaged 10.4 points per game, contributing to the team’s multiple WNIT appearances.
Williams’ impact on the game started long before college.
A standout at Hillside High School in Durham, North Carolina, she earned North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year honors in 2009 and was a two-time PAC-6 Conference Player of the Year.
Her Parents Are Proud
Williams’ return to coaching has been fueled by her professional ambitions, personal reflection, and spiritual growth.
Her parents are proud of her journey and the progress she has made.
On social media, she shared a heartfelt message about the journey that led her to Norfolk State, expressing appreciation for her mother, Gloria Shoffner-Wilson, and late father, Jerry Williams.
She wrote,
“My mom sent me this picture 2 weeks ago. Back then, this wasn’t even an option anymore. But I’ve learned it’s not about my plan or my timing, it’s all about God’s. His plan is always better. 🙏🏾❤️”
Via X
She followed up,
“God orders every step. This one led me to Norfolk State. So excited to join the Spartan family. Thankful for the journey and to be back doing what I love.”
Via X
Williams’ step-father, Pastor William Wilson of North New Hope Baptist Church in Danville, Virginia, has been a major influence in her life and faith.
He studied at Hosanna Bible College and received his Doctor of Divinity (Honoris Causa) between 2021 and 2022.
With her passion reignited and purpose renewed, Asia Williams is poised to make a lasting impact at Norfolk State.
