Freshman basketball player Jaison Williams is leaving Xavier in hopes of greater playing time elsewhere.

        The 6-foot-3 guard, who averaged 2.2 points and 8.0 minutes a game, was a backup to junior Lionel Chalmers this season.

        Chalmers, a former partial qualifier, will have two more seasons available if he elects to return for a fifth year, and incoming recruit Dedrick Finn is also a highly rated point guard.

        “I enjoyed my freshman season at Xavier,” Williams said in a statement. “... However, at this time, it is in my best interest to pursue the remainder of my career at another university where I hope to expand my role.”

        Wherever Williams transfers will be his fifth program in 2 1/2 years. He transfered from Aurora (Colo.) Smoky Hill High School to Aurora Hinkley just before the 1999-2000 season. He was dismissed from the Hinkley team Jan.2, 2001 for reportedly violating team rules.

        He enrolled a month later at Columbus Northland and played in two games, but an Ohio High School Athletic Association ruling ended his season because his parents hadn't yet taken full-time residence in Ohio.

        Williams was an efficient shooter for XU, making 45 percent of his shots overall and 41 percent from 3-point range. He spearheaded the comeback victory at Richmond, totaling five points, three assists and a steal as XU outscored UR 13-0 in a 3:21 span late in the game.

        “We appreciate Jaison's contribution to the Xavier team this past season,” XU coach Thad Matta said. “We understand the reasons for his decision. We wish Jaison the best in his future academic and athletic endeavors.”

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Williams leaves XU, seeks playing time

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