TCC's Kody Williams signs with Loyola University Chicago

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (July 10, 2012) - Tallahassee Community College's Kody Williams, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound guard, has signed a national letter of intent with Loyola University Chicago and will join the Ramblers' program this fall. Loyola Chicago head coach Porter Moser announced the signing of the Niceville, Fla., native.

"Kody gives us toughness and athleticism at the guard spot," said Moser. "He can play the one, two or three spots and brings collegiate experience to our program having been at both the University of Southern Mississippi and Tallahassee Community College. Kody is a long, athletic player who can be a great defensive stopper for us."

Tallahassee head coach Eddie Barnes called Williams a "very good catch" for Loyola Chicago.

"I am very proud of Kody," said Barnes. "This was his first extensive action at the college level, and he came a long way to find himself as a player this year."

According to Williams, similarities between his now former and future coach played a role in his decision-making process.

"Coach Moser is more hands-on and reminded me of Coach Barnes, as well as the way he treated his players and coaching staff," said Williams. "It's a family-oriented atmosphere."

After an injury limited Williams to just four games as a freshman at Southern Miss, he transferred to Tallahassee and averaged 4.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 28 games during the 2011-12 season.

Williams started 17 games with the Eagles, including all 12 Panhandle Conference contests. In league play, he averaged 4.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.1 assists.

"Coach Barnes operates at a D-I level and I learned a lot under him and (assistant) Coach (T.J.) Braxton," added Williams. "The Panhandle is a tough league and they prepared me mentally and physically, both on and off the court."

Signing with the Ramblers is a homecoming of sorts for Williams, who was born in Chicago before his family moved to the Florida Panhandle. He is also the cousin of former DePaul University standout and NBA All-Star Mark Aguirre.

"I think his basketball IQ and offensive skills have improved, and we will be hearing a lot of good things about him in the future," added Barnes.

Loyola Chicago, who posted a 7-23 record in 2011-12, is a member of the Horizon League.