Missoula, MT – Montana Grizzlies basketball player Money Williams has announced that he is taking a leave of absence from the team following the tragic passing of his mother. Williams, a sophomore guard, returned home to Oakland, CA to care for his younger siblings after his mother, Latoya Bailey, died in her sleep on October 12th. This comes just a year after Williams lost his father in November of last year.
In a statement on a GoFundMe page set up by the family, Williams expressed the immense weight of responsibility he and his sister now face in looking after their three younger siblings. The family is seeking support to prevent the children from being placed in the foster care system. Williams’ decision to step away from the team was confirmed by UM, where he had shown great potential as a player, averaging 13.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game during his freshman year. He had been named the Big Sky Conference player of the week in December.
Williams’ absence will be deeply felt by the team, but his dedication to his family in this difficult time is commendable. His story has touched many, and support has been pouring in through the GoFundMe page. The Montana basketball community stands with Williams as he navigates this challenging period in his life, and looks forward to his return to the court when the time is right.
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Photo credit www.montanasports.com