Illini Replay: Frank Williams

All-time great Illini point guard Frank Williams, 2001. (Image courtesy of UI Athletics)

Nearly 20 years have passed since all-time great Illini point guard Frank Williams first wore the Orange and Blue. The Peoria, Ill., native developed into one of Illinois’ top scorers and winningest players, finishing his three-year career with 1,440 points (14.3 ppg), leading Illinois to back-to-back shares of the Big Ten title and a 2001 trip to the NCAA Elite Eight that culminated in a final Associated Press ranking of fourth nationwide. Number 30 was named the 2001 Big Ten Player of the Year, and went on to become an NBA first-round draft pick in 2002. Now Williams’ son, second-year forward Da’Monte Williams, is donning the same colors and embracing the challenge of living up to his father’s legacy—and Illinois fans are hoping this orange doesn’t fall far from the tree.