KINGSTON, R.I. - Rhode Island women's basketball head coach Tammi Reiss announced the signing of Chanell Williams for the 2021-22 season. Williams comes to Kingston as a graduate transfer after spending the last four years at Providence. "I'm so excited to welcome Chanell to our Ram family," said Reiss. "She is a dynamic guard that fits our culture and system perfectly. Chanell has a competitive fire and tireless energy."

Williams started all 21 games for the Friars at point in 2020-21. She averaged 9.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game as a senior.  Williams led the Friars in assists (64), ranked second in steals (26) and finished third on the team in assist/turnover ratio (+1.23). "She is an excellent defender, rim attacker, distributor, and she pushes the rock in transition which I absolutely love," added Reiss. "I think her most endearing quality is her passion and love for the game!" Williams led PC and shot a career-best 41-percent from three-point territory (16-39). During her time at Providence, Williams was named to the Big East Weekly Honor Roll three times, and earned Freshman of the Week twice during her rookie season in 2017-18. After averaging 6.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and a team-best 2.6 assists per game that freshman season, she was a unanimous selection to the Big East All-Freshman Team. This year, she earned a spot on the Big East All-Academic Team. 

Williams comes to Kingston with one year of eligibility. "This young woman wants to be a pro and she works on her craft everyday," finished Reiss. "That is why I cannot wait to get her in Keaney Blue."