Laramie, Wyo. (August 16, 2020) – Wyoming Cowboy basketball has seen its fair share of great players from the Lone Star State over the years. One of those players now has his number in the Arena-Auditorium and another was the Chairman of the Boards. But new Cowboy Marcus Williams looks to make a name for himself when the Pokes hit the floor this season.

Growing up outside of Houston, Texas, Williams made a name for himself on the basketball court. One of the top players in the state, he proved that not only great football is played in the state, but outstanding basketball can also be seen. He originally signed with Northern Colorado, but followed head coach Jeff Linder to Wyoming.

"Texas has so much talent in basketball," Williams said. "Every game I have played was against some very solid players. It's tough playing against so many great players, but you have to go compete. Playing against such talented players in the Houston era will help make the transition to college basketball. It has prepared me to be a great competitor."

Williams and his teammates have talked to many former Cowboys over the past few weeks via Zoom. One of those players was Reggie Slater. Wyoming's all-time leading rebounder grew up in Houston and is a successful businessman there today.

"I spoke to Reggie Slater on a zoom call here a few weeks back and it is great to know all the great players who have came here from Texas. It was really cool to talk to Reggie, we lived in the same area. He came up to Wyoming and really made a name for himself. It shows you that a person from my area did, so I can do the same. It is cool to look and see the Fennis Dembo jersey in the rafters. I didn't know a lot about the ties before I came here, but it has been interesting to learn about them."

Marcus was rated as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com and was one of the top-rated guards in Texas, as he ranked 14th in the state by Texas Hoops and in the top 10 for his region of the greater Houston area. As a senior, Williams added 21.4 points per game and 7.3 assists. He also added 3.9 rebounds per game and 3.3 steals per night. He earned First Team All-VYPE, a magazine dedicated to Houston high school sports. His team ranked No. 14 in the nation according to MaxPreps.com and ranked second in Texas.  DHS ended their abbreviated season at 32-5 and with a trip to the 6A state final four in Texas' largest classification.

"Fans are going to see a great passer that can really get his teammates involved," Williams said. "When it's my time to score fans will see that ability too. I also just bring great intensity on the defensive end of the floor."
Williams and the Cowboys have been in workouts since mid-July. Workouts have included lifting along with individual and team workouts.

"I have seen the little details in my game improve," Williams said. "I have learned my role in the offense of getting my teammates involved and playing in the right position. Also defensively, knowing how to guard and always be in the right position."

GoWyo.com will catch up with all the newcomers to Cowboy Basketball this summer.