Gus Williams (2009) - USC Athletics Hall of Fame

Gus Williams

Induction:
2009
Class:
1975

Gus Williams, a high-scoring and electrifying guard, was USC basketball’s own version of the “Wizard.” The 3-year letterman (1973-75) earned All-American first team, All-Pac-8 first team and USC MVP honors in 1975 when he led the Pac-8 in scoring (21.2). He finished his career with 1,308 points (then the most ever by a Trojan guard) while averaging 16.1 points per game. He also set since-broken records for career (362) and season (141 in 1974) assists. In 1974, he averaged a team-best 15.5 points and led Troy to a 24-5 record. All 3 of his Trojan teams finished second or third in the Pac-8 standings. He then played in the NBA for 11 years, averaging 17.1 points with the Warriors, SuperSonics (where he won an NBA championship in 1979 after being runner-up the previous season), Bullets and Hawks and twice earning All-Star honors. He was NBA Comeback Player of the Year in 1982. He then was involved with organizations combating domestic and substance abuse and youth violence. He died on Jan. 15, 2025, at age 71.