Interview with Wilberforce University Athletics Director & Head Women’s Basketball Derek Williams


Derek Williams begins his second season at Wilberforce University as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach after a successful season this past year at Wilberforce. Before Wilberforce, Coach Williams had a successful stint at Cincinnati Christian University, where he successfully transformed the women’s basketball program. Prior to Cincinnati Christian University, Coach Williams was on staff at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College where he served in various roles from assistant coach to Interim Head Coach. While at Cincinnati State, women’s basketball won conference and district titles leading to NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) National Tournament Berth.

Known for his energetic coaching style, Coach Williams produced several All American players that completed their athletic careers at NCAA Division I Institutions. During the 2015-16 campaign, Cincinnati State finished 22-10, before his departure to become Head Coach at NAIA Division II Cincinnati Christian University.

A Cincinnati native, Coach Williams spent over 10 years as a High School Girls and Boys Basketball Coach with 12 years coaching AAU basketball.

As a dual-sport athlete himself, Coach Williams understands first hand that athletics is a tool to help develop student-athletes for a successful career and life.

Coach Williams holds a MA degree in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University-Irvine and a BA degree in sports science from United States Sports Academy, Daphne, AL.

Coach Williams and his wife Allyson, have two kids, Naomi (10) and Jayden (7). Williams attends St. Luke AME Church and serves as the Director of Music.

“I want to thank Wilberforce University President Dr. Herman Felton Jr. and Director of Athletics, Dorianne Johnson for bringing me on board here at Wilberforce. I am excited to assist with moving Wilberforce women’s basketball forward,” stated Coach Derek Williams.