Senior Spotlight: Khalil Willliams

By Caleigh O'Toole

Senior Khalil Williams is a starter for Oyster Bay’s varsity basketball team. He has played on varsity since his sophomore year of high school. Last season alone, he scored a total of 201 points, averaging 10.1 points per game. With a bright future ahead of him, Williams hopes to play in college, but for now, he remains focused on the present. Williams revealed that his secret to success is working hard and staying humble.

Although Williams started playing on the varsity team as a sophomore, he encountered a major obstacle during his freshman year. “I worked hard that summer to come back in shape, but I broke my foot at the beginning of freshman year and thought I wouldn’t come back.” The injury was a setback for Williams, and after a disappointing first game back, he needed to recollect himself.

However, Williams is not one to let adversities bring him down. For him, basketball is a game about mindset; if you have the right mindset, you can accomplish almost anything. With college only a year away for Williams, he believes it is imperative to stick to this mentality. “It would be a great opportunity to play in college, and with the work I put in, I think I’m capable of playing,” Williams says. 

Would Khalil Williams change anything about his time here at Oyster Bay? “No, because to me everything happens for a reason. So, if certain things didn’t happen, I wouldn’t be the player I am now.” Williams’ humility highlights the type of player he really is, a hardworking individual who always remains optimistic. 

In addition to his successful basketball career at OBHS, Williams is grateful for the friendships he has made throughout the years. “...the friendships I have formed with teammates [are important].” He also expressed gratitude for his team’s wins. Williams is proud of his team’s past success “especially in [his] sophomore year.”

Khalil Williams is an athlete who is determined to be better every day for the sake of his team. It’s no surprise that Williams has garnered well-deserved praise throughout his high school career, and there’s no limit to what he can accomplish in his future athletic endeavors.