Why this standout high school receiver chose Fresno State was ‘an obvious choice’
Fresno State commit AJ Williams said his decision to join the Bulldogs came down to the strong relationships he built with the coaching staff and the vision they shared for the program.
“Just my relationship with the coaches,” he said. “It was really good to me on my visit, and I just liked the campus and everything about it, and what they’re building. It was an obvious choice.”
The standout 6-foot-3 receiver took his official visit to Fresno State from May 29-31, getting an in-depth look at the program and campus life. He became the latest of Fresno-area players to choose the Bulldogs.
A major factor in his decision was wide receivers coach DelVon Hardaway, who quickly made a strong impression. While the two didn’t spend much time discussing his own film, they studied Fresno State’s offense together.
“Hardaway is real cool,” he said. “I could tell just from being with him for two days that he’s a genuine person. He’s real cool, and he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to teaching.
“We were watching Fresno State film. I learned how they get in and out of their breaks, the type of releases they want to use, and just went through the basics.”
Last season, Williams played for Hanford High and finished with 59 receptions for 896 yards and 10 touchdowns. He has since transferred to Clovis West.
Williams, a three-star recruit by Rivals, said the Bulldogs see him as an outside receiver and believe his skill set will fit well within their offense. Hearing that from the coaching staff reinforced his confidence in choosing Fresno State.
“I think I’m going to do well there,” he said. “Get some good blocks, make difficult catches and things like that. It felt good. It just lets me know that I’m wanted there and not just another one on the roster.”
Fresno State first offered him in January, a moment he still remembers clearly.
Now committed to the Bulldogs, he’s looking forward to helping Fresno State continue building toward future success.
“I was happy, especially getting that Fresno State offer — the hometown school,” he said. “I was really blessed to get it. I really appreciated it. It was a great feeling.”
