In a recent interview with Paul M. Banks at RG.com, former NBA All-Star Deron Williams offered a candid look back at his college basketball days and detailed his current life as a multifaceted entrepreneur and dedicated family man. Williams, now 41, emphasized how profoundly the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has altered the landscape of college athletics, an evolution he views through the lens of personal experience.
The NIL Revolution and Financial Realities of the Past
For Williams and his legendary college team, financial hardship was a significant motivator—a stark contrast to the opportunities now available to student-athletes. He shared the challenging reality of trying to make ends meet in an era before NIL earnings were possible.
“Some of these guys are making more money than I probably did in my (NBA) rookie season,” the businessman noted.
Recalling the financial constraints he and his teammates faced, Williams painted a vivid picture of survival. He specifically mentioned having a child at a young age, a challenge shared by another teammate. “I had a baby at 18. Dee did too,” he said. “We were surviving on 180 bucks after we paid our rent. We were a little hungrier, I think, than some of these guys.”
That shared struggle and “hunger,” however, became a wellspring of inspiration and camaraderie that fueled their monumental success. That iconic team drew strength from their lack of resources, ultimately translating it into a historic run that saw them win the Big Ten, the Big Ten Tournament, and finish the season with an NCAA record 37 wins.
A Boxer for a Night and a Businessman for Life
While Williams is best known for his time on the court, he briefly stepped into the ring for a unique challenge. In December 2021, he fought in an exhibition boxing match, defeating longtime former NFL running back Frank Gore in a four-round decision in Tampa. However, any speculation about a potential boxing career was quickly put to rest.
“I said after the fight, it was just a one and done,” Williams confirmed. “Yeah, check that box.”
Today, Williams is fully focused on his diverse and growing business portfolio. He has established himself as a successful real estate figure in Dallas, where he both designs and builds houses. Additionally, his Dallas ventures include the ownership of an upscale gym. His entrepreneurial reach extends beyond Texas, as he also owns several businesses in Salt Lake City and maintains an equity stake in his watch company.
A Devoted Family Man on the Go
Amid his numerous business ventures, Williams remains a devoted father of four, a role that keeps him perpetually in motion. “I got four kids, so they’re all over the place,” he stated when asked about his current activities.
His children are currently at various stages of their academic journeys:
- His oldest child recently graduated from SMU.
- Another is just beginning her freshman year at Clemson.
- He also has two children currently in high school.
Juggling family responsibilities with a bicoastal business operation means Williams is “constantly on the go, constantly on the move,” traveling frequently between Dallas and Salt Lake City. Despite the busy schedule, Williams concluded with an optimistic assessment:
“Yeah, life’s good.”
