WHAT’S YOUR WHY? Carmelo Williams | Guard | Buford High School

For Carmelo Williams, basketball wasn’t something he discovered later in life. It was woven into his upbringing, learned early, felt deeply, and shaped by the environment around him.

Growing up in Buford, Carmelo learned quickly how life can accelerate maturity. “The people on my street made me grow up fast,” he says. “That’s where I really fell in love with basketball.”

In a place where time moved quickly and expectations came early; the game became both an outlet and a focus.

Introduced to the Game

Carmelo’s relationship with basketball started almost as soon as he could walk.

“I started when I was a toddler,” he explains. “I would always go watch my dad play basketball at the black gym.”

Those moments, watching, listening, absorbing, left an imprint. Basketball wasn’t just something to play. It was something to respect.

The Why That Drives Him

At his core, Carmelo is a competitor.

“I love competing,” he says. “I like to make my parents happy, and I love showing everyone what I got.”

His parents remain his biggest inspiration, grounding his approach and pushing him forward. While his “why” hasn’t fundamentally changed, his perspective has matured.

“Now I see I have to go even harder,” he says. “A lot of people’s lives depend on this sport, and there are a lot of people who would love to be in my position.”

That awareness fuels his urgency and his gratitude.

Putting in the Work

Carmelo’s routine reflects commitment beyond the basics. His days are built around consistency and extra effort.

• Second-period workouts every day

• Team practice after school

• Staying late for extra drills and shots

  
  

There’s no shortcut in his process, just repetition and responsibility.

Game-Day Rhythm

Every athlete has their routine, and Carmelo’s is personal and familiar.

Before games, it’s always the same: An orange Fanta and some candy for energy.

Before practice, its simpler, yogurt, laughter, and joking with teammates before locking in and heading to the court.

That balance, focus mixed with joy, keeps the game fun while the work stays serious.

The Legacy He Wants to Leave

When Carmelo thinks about the future, it’s bigger than stats or recognition.

“I want to be remembered as an all-around athlete,” he says. “And I want to inspire the little kids from where I was born.”

He understands what it means to grow up watching others chase dreams. Now, he’s conscious of the example he sets for those watching him.

Final Word

Carmelo Williams plays with joy, edge, and purpose.

Rooted in family. Motivated by opportunity. Driven by competition.

Still growing. Still grinding. Still becoming.

And that is his why.