Boston Warrior AAU Boy's Basketball: Warrior News: Boston Globe Akeem William's interview

Had the chance to catch up with another familiar Winchendon face – former Avon star and Globe Super Teamer Akeem Williams – at the Hoophall. Here’s some excerpts of what he had to say.

Q: Tell me about your initial experience in a new environment?
A: My first game here, I was out of shape. I thought I was the best, so coming here took my confidence down a little bit. Coach [Byrnes] holds you accountable for everything.

Q: How much of an ego check has it been?
A: Big ego check. Every game, your confidence can go from being on top of the world to being on the bottom.

Q: During your run with Kevin Miranda at Avon, the Panthers were known more for their frenetic pace and LMU-style of offense; and not so much – how do you say? – jump shots. How have you improved on the latter?
A: [laughing] During the summer, I worked on it a lot. I knew if I was going to be successful in this program, I was going to have to make a few jump shots. That’s been a big difference here.

Q: Are you surprised with how many minutes you’re getting (roughly 20-25) considering all the talent you’re competing with (four Division 1 commits, including Kansas State-bound Jordan Henriquez)?
A: Very surprised. I think I was one of the last guys to make it onto the roster, so I didn’t think I was going to get a lot of minutes. But coach told me coming into the season, ‘Work hard, and you’ll play’.