Butta Joins the Stags
In mid-September, Connecticut’s standout guard Tony Williams from Putnam Science Academy and the New Haven Heat announced his commitment to Fairfield University in the MAAC Conference for next year.
For Williams, the past year has been transformative. His name has gone from being well-regarded in Connecticut to highly recognized across the region, especially after showcasing his skills in the MADE Hoops circuit during the grassroots season.
The 6’1” point guard began his high school career at Norwich Free Academy (NFA), a top CIAC Division school in Connecticut. In his sophomore year, he made an impressive start, averaging around 13 points per game in fifteen games, but hampered by a shoulder injury, which prevented him from performing at the top of his game.
After his sophomore year, Williams considered joining his longtime teammate, Naz Rembert, who had transferred to Putnam Science Academy. Ultimately, he opted to stay for another year as the leader at NFA, a decision that paid off.
Surrounded by a new supporting cast, Williams’ potential began to blossom, as he averaged over 23 points per game, earned all-state honors, and unlocked new aspects of his game.
Following his junior season at NFA, Williams made the move to the national powerhouse at Putnam, repeating his junior year to join the Class of 2025. Initially, he played on Putnam’s “Elite” team, competing in the Power 5 AA conference rather than the Mustangs' usual national schedule.
But with an injury to starting point guard Mekhi Conner and the departure of Dame Givner, Williams was quickly moved up to the national team, making valuable contributions while gaining experience at a higher level of play.
Williams’ final grassroots season proved pivotal. Leading New Haven Heat on the MADE Hoops Circuit, a team often cited as one of the best independent squads in the Northeast, Williams showcased his skills.
His hard work paid off with offers from Gardner-Webb and Quinnipiac in February, followed by Albany, Bryant, and ultimately, Fairfield by May.
Known for his speedy, twitchy handle, Williams is a tough matchup for defenders, breaking down the defense with ease.
He excels at driving to the hoop, pulling up for quick mid-range shots, and, over the season, he significantly improved as a floor general, showcasing his vision and playmaking abilities.
So far this season, “Butta” has built upon his progress, making significant contributions to Putnam’s early victories as they work towards competing for a fifth National Prep Championship.
At Fairfield, Butta will be joining an accomplished college coach in Chris Casey, who enters his 39th consecutive season in the NCAA coaching ranks, and first as the official head coach of the Stags.
In his debut season at the helm, Casey led Fairfield to a 24-13 record, marking the second-highest win total in the school’s history. The Stags finished second in the MAAC regular season with a 14-6 record and advanced to the MAAC Championship Game. They also competed in the CBI, where they won two games to reach the semifinals of the tournament.
In joining Fairfield, Williams brings exciting potential and homegrown talent to the Stags. Looking to see him and other top prospects in action? The National Prep Showcase is just under three weeks away. Check out the event schedule for a full rundown of the day!
Tony Williams
Mekhi Conner