Michigan State women's basketball was expecting to see their freshman center have a massive impact early on in her career. It still could be a big year for Lilly Williams, but she nearly had her freshman season cut short before it even began.
The 6-foot-6 reigning Miss Basketball in the State of Michigan had a very difficult summer as she was getting adjusted to East Lansing.
In fact, her time on campus and on the court in practice has been very limited, due to an issue with her vision. Williams has had to have three eye surgeries since early July — the most recent being just last month due to some scar tissue once again imparing her vision.
That most recent surgery once again kept Lilly out, and she only returned to practice last Tuesday.
Williams spoke with Brian Calloway from the Lansing State Journal about the whole process.
"They went in and they were able to remove the scar tissue and there were no issues," Williams said. "They did find a tear in my retina so they had to fix that and make it better. The recovery was a little bit longer than expected, but now I’m back on the court."
It's good news as the Spartan women open their season with a home clash with Valpariso this week.
Robyn Fralick encouraged by the freshman’s progress
Coach Robyn Fralick was impressed by how Williams has handled the setbacks, and excited about what Lilly brings to the table for the Spartans.
"She is a wonderful player, and an even better himan being," Fralick said. ”She's had some real challenges this offseason with a number of eye surgeries. Credit to her because she's kind of hat a lot of punches thrown at her and her attitude and her positivity have been great."
Williams will see plenty of time in the post alongside Isaline Alexander who has had a up and down career because of plenty of injuries in her own right. Lilly’s height gives the Spartans their tallest player in years, and having her healthy is something they desperately need moving forward.
She’s ready.
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