Why 'mindset' is so important for first-year Jackson State basketball coach Mo Williams
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Jackson native and former Murrah High School grad Mo Williams has returned home to lead the Jackson State men’s basketball program for the 2022-23 season. Williams knows the feeling of playing championship basketball at the highest level, starting every game for Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2008-09 season and winning the NBA title.
Williams, 39, looks to bring that same championship mentality he had with the Cavaliers when they defeated the Golden State after trailing 3-1. To illustrate the importance, Williams has the word “Mindset” printed on the team's practice jerseys.
“What I mean by championship mindset,” Williams said, “ is to have it in everything you do. I don’t have to worry about you going to class. I don’t have to worry about you getting back on defense or you diving on the floor for loose balls. I don’t have to worry about you attending a party or, what you put in your body. If you have a championship mindset, that does not turn off.”
Williams coached at Alabama State (14-35) for two years, compiling a 14-35 records and is taking over for Wayne Brent, who retired after last season. Brent coached the Tigers for nine years and finished last season at 11-19 and 9-9 in the SWAC.
Besides a new coach, the Tigers will have 10 new players, including 6-foot-8 senior Trace Young who played for Willians at Alabama State. Look for them to play quick and uptempo, but not fast. They want to push the ball up and down the court instead of walking it up.
In preseason practices, 6-2 guard Gabe Watson has made an impact. Watson was injured early last season and played in just seven games, but averaged 14.9 points per contest. Fully healthy, Williams is expecting the Tulane transfer to have the kind of game to garner conference player of the year consideration.
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During SWAC Media Day on Monday, Williams said point guard Chase Adams will run the offense.
Jackson State opens its season at Abilene Christian on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m.
JSU will be long and lean with several players able to play multiple positions. Williams’ philosophy is to have teams play through them rather than around them. On offense, they will run a complex offense and play aggressively on defense. In the forward spots, 6-9 Romelle Mansel will bang on the inside and according to Williams, the sleeper on the team has been 6-5 sophomore Ken Evans Jr.
“He has a lot of potential,” Williams said. He does not know how good he is yet. I’m looking forward to his growth, he is going to be a major contributor for us this year.”
The kid called peanut by family and friends is happy to be back home where it all began. Williams knows for him to be successful by executing on offense and defense, while not turning the ball over, are the keys to bringing a SWAC championship to JSU.
Williams knows if he can make it to the NBA and play for 13 seasons, there is talent on his roster and in the HBCUs for other players to have a successful NBA career as well.
“The support I have received has been tremendous,” Williams said. “Me being from here, and growing up here with my mom, dad, and brother attending Jackson State. I grew up around it. I am excited to be here, but I know people love you until you don’t win.”
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: 'Mindset' is the theme for Jackson State basketball coach Mo Williams
