Williams finally lands in Darwin

NBL1 North star Verle Williams is headed to the Darwin Salties for the 2024 NBL1 season. 

Williams was a key piece to USC Rip City’s success last season, averaging 11.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and four assists for the Finals team. They lost to the Gold Coast Rollers in the first round, where he scored 17 points in a close three-point loss. 

Williams had a season-high of 21 points against both the Southern District Spartans and the South West Metro Pirates, scoring over 15 or more points in seven games. 

Darwin head coach Matt Flinn explained that he has had his eyes on Williams for multiple seasons, finally securing him for 2024. 

"Verle is someone we tried to get to the club in 2022 when we first started this thing,” he said. 

“Unfortunately, at the time he was contracted to another club. So, when the opportunity came to get him this time around, we jumped in early. He is a quality young man, culturally proud, and from a basketball standpoint possesses outstanding straight-line speed and flare. 

“He has proven that he is great at creating advantageous situations in transition with the teams he has played for, and we feel like he will create great opportunities for those around him. Looking forward to getting him around this team and seeing how we put this all together.”

Williams explained that after playing in front of Darwin’s crowd last season, it was an easy decision to play in the Northern Territory. 

"Honestly, playing in Darwin has always been on my mind since they came into the league,” he said.

"I had the chance to play in front of the Darwin Salties crowd in the 2023 season and the atmosphere was amazing. 

I looked up to some of the guys that have played for them like Deba (George) and Nate (Jawai). We've got some history playing on the same teams and had some battles going against each other. I'm excited to run with them again!”

Williams joins NBL talents Sean MacDonald and Maluach Makuach on the Salties 2024 roster.

Stay up-to-date with all the latest NBL1 signings via the 2024 Roster Tracker here.