By Darryl Jacobs, Contributing Writer
The Motor City Cruise, the NBA G League affiliate of the Detroit Pistons, has added a familiar face to the roster with the signing of Detroit native Ray Williams, bringing a local storyline back to the Wayne State Fieldhouse.
Williams joins the Cruise after being selected from the available player pool, marking another step in a grind-it-out path to the pros. The 6-foot-4 guard impressed the organization in the fall, earning an invitation to training camp through the team’s open tryout. Though he did not make the final cut at the start of the season, his performance left a lasting impression that ultimately led to his return.
A product of Wayne State University, where Cruise calls home, Williams built a strong résumé over five seasons with the Warriors. In 95 appearances, he posted averages of 8.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and nearly one assist per game, while earning two selections to the GLIAC All-Defensive Team. He played a key role in leading Wayne State to the 2021 NCAA Division II Tournament, the program’s first tournament berth in nearly a decade.
In a corresponding move, center Charles Bediako has been called to represent Team Canada during the opening window of the 2025 FIBA Men’s World Cup cycle. He will be unavailable for the Cruise from Nov. 23–29 while participating in national team activities.
For Williams, the signing represents more than just a roster spot — it’s an opportunity to launch his professional career in the same city and on the same court where he made his name.
Darryl Jacobs
ESPN & CBS Sports Networks, NBA TV
Basketball Commentator
