AMES, Iowa — At just 20 years old, Jada Williams is already experiencing the highs and lows of homeownership. She’s busy with lawn care, garage organization, air filter changes, and minor repairs at the four-bedroom fixer-upper she recently purchased.
In addition to her household responsibilities, Williams has a busy schedule ahead.
As the starting point guard and key player, she is set to lead the 14th-ranked Iowa State, which aims to contend for the Big 12 women’s basketball championship and secure a sixth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
When she finds some free time, she creates content for her impressive social media following of over 1 million.
Life is certainly exciting for Jada Williams right now.
“I’ve been here since June,” she shared, “and my life is 100% better.”
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Williams was among the top recruits while coming out of La Jolla Country Day School in San Diego. Her college career began at Arizona, where she started in 58 of 64 games and led the Wildcats in scoring during her last season.
Finding Peace
Without going into specifics, Williams mentioned that her time in Arizona affected her mental health. Seeking a more peaceful environment, she feels she has found that with coach Bill Fennelly, his staff, and her new teammates.
“I’m in a way better spot here,” she said, emphasizing how this change is likely to improve her performance on the court. “They believe in me, want me to shoot, want me to pass, and encourage my abilities.”
Social Media Influence
Williams boasts nearly 600,000 followers on Instagram, over 500,000 on TikTok, and around 18,000 on X (Twitter). She started producing training videos with her godfather, former player Marcus Walker, when she was in middle school, transitioning to showcase her athletic talents and personality.
“She really surprised people online since social media wasn’t as popular back then, and it was all just for fun,” her mother, Jill McIntyre, said. “This wasn’t something we planned; it all unfolded naturally and has been a thrilling journey.”
Financial Opportunities
With her growing popularity, Williams has gained significant name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, making her one of the highest-earning women in college sports. According to Opendorse, top Big 12 point guards can expect around $250,000 annually, but some estimates suggest Williams’ earnings could be double that.
She was the first high school female athlete to sign an NIL agreement and secured her first major national deal with Spalding in 2021, followed by partnerships with Move insoles, sports publisher Overtime, toy brand Nerf, Lemon Perfect flavored water, and social networking app Bumble, among others.
Future Plans
“I’m grateful for my amazing support system, including my mom, godfather, and agent,” she said. “Not everyone gets such opportunities, and I ensure I don’t take it for granted, especially now that NIL has taken effect.”
Williams has also gained insights into financial management, viewing her new house in Ames as a viable investment. She shares it with her golden retriever, Deuce, and enjoys hosting teammates, family, and friends there, as she plans to convert it into an Airbnb once her time at Iowa State concludes.
On the Court
Joining a strong lineup featuring standout players Audi Crooks and Addy Brown, Williams will replace Emily Ryan, who was a five-year starter. Her style of play brings speed and determination, making her a formidable defender.
“When Emily Ryan would go to the basket, it was almost certain the ball would be passed,” coach Fennelly commented. “Jada will score more.”
Brown, who grew up in Kansas and has known Williams since third grade, encouraged her to join the Cyclones after they played together in the 2023 McDonald’s All-American Game. Williams averaged 12.7 points per game last season and ranked second in the Big 12 with an 86.2% free-throw shooting rate, though she faced challenges with injuries and a difficult environment.
“A lot of limitations can come when you’re in a system that doesn’t suit your style,” Brown reflected, hinting at the hurdles Williams experienced at Arizona. “I’m excited to see her thrive here.”
Williams is focused on proving herself in this fresh environment and is determined to demonstrate her capabilities.
“Everybody said Jada fell off,” she remarked, “so now I’m here to show that I didn’t.”
