Damond Williams: Chicago Grit, Global Game, and Giving Back

In this episode of Passport to the Pros, we sit down with Damond Williams, a Chicago native whose basketball journey spans from the blacktops of his hometown to the NCAA Tournament — and beyond. Damond reflects on his path through New Mexico State, Memphis, and McNeese State, where his hard work and resilience earned him a shot at March Madness.

After his playing career, Damond founded the Chicago Basketball Academy, a program dedicated to developing athletes both on and off the court. He also shares stories from his unforgettable matchups with Michael Jordan, offering insight into what it takes to compete at the highest level.

“Nothing is easy, nothing is overnight and if you're gifted, you still got to work.”

“The game of basketball is system based, especially on the professional level. So once I got used to the system... I always had this versatile approach to do what was needed to win.”