Time is always of the essence for West Aurora’s Jason Williams.
Never knowing exactly when his name is going to be called creates its own heightened brand of urgency for the senior guard who comes off the bench for the Blackhawks.
“I always have to be ready and stay patient,” he said. “I’m trying to do everything I can to change the game around in our favor.
“Once I get in there, I just try to stay in there for as long as I can and do as much as I can during the time that I’m out there.”
Known as “JJ,” Williams is a change agent — a defense-first role player who has shown a knack for making positive actions for West Aurora (19-10), even during limited playing time.
The 6-foot-1 Williams showed his value with hustle and other intangibles Friday on senior night.
Not entering until late in the third quarter, Williams finished with four points, four rebounds, a blocked shot and a steal. He helped the Blackhawks recover from a nine-point deficit.
Although their rally came up short, West Aurora coach Michael Fowler was impressed.
“He completely changed the game around,” Fowler said of Williams. “His defensive energy and just effort alone helped us get back up that hill when we were really struggling offensively.”
Williams combines an excellent first step, quickness off the dribble and superb awareness. Coming into the game on a moment’s notice means adjusting to the action.
“I just try to do whatever I can to get myself going because whenever I come in off the bench I always feel kind of cold,” he said. “After I’m warmed up, I get used to the game really quickly.
“Just push through and do whatever the team needs.”
Roles change and minutes fluctuate, but Williams never alters his perspective. He called Los Angeles Clippers guard Russell Westbrook his favorite player and biggest influence.
Williams plays with a similar, relentless spirit.
“I’m a defense-first player who likes to bring as much energy as I can,” Williams said. “Get the small buckets that really help the team. I just like to be out there.”
Off the court, Williams is creative and easygoing with a wide interest in music. His favorite activity is hanging out with friends. On a close-knit team, the bench players have a special connection.
Williams, meanwhile, is a kindred spirit whose importance is innately understood, according to senior guard Brady Smith.
“JJ always brings the spark of energy the team needs,” Smith said. “His presence is felt on the floor, and typically he gets us going with the high energy and motor he plays with.
“He has accepted his role with a defensive mindset. He also seizes each opportunity to perform on the offensive side.”
Senior night always brings out a wide range of feelings. After the ceremony for his final home game, Williams reflected on the journey for West Aurora.
“I didn’t play much last year, but I never let that get me down,” Williams said. “Now, I just come in for defensive stops when we need them.
“There were a lot of emotions, being at home for the last time, but I’m always focused on what I have to do.”
Williams, who is undecided about college, plans to study sports management. He started playing basketball at age 7. At the time, his older brother, Daishon Smith, was a guard at East Aurora.
“My dad and my brother were a big influence on how I approach the game,” Williams said. “I always look to do the same thing and make the most out of any opportunity I’ve had out there.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.