October 24th 2024.
Former Oakland High basketball star, Money Williams, has been faced with back-to-back family tragedies that have caused him to put his college basketball career on hold. It's a heartbreaking reality that he never could have imagined. Losing both of his parents within a year has left him and his older sister, Mo'Ney, responsible for their three younger siblings: Joanna, Jermaine, and Jeremiah Benson. The weight of this responsibility, combined with their overwhelming grief, has been a heavy burden to bear.
Fortunately, Williams has received support from his team at Montana University. Head coach DeCuire, the basketball program, and all of Grizzly Athletics have given him the time and space he needs to cope with this unimaginable tragedy. According to Montana's assistant director of communications, Jackson Wagner, their main focus is on Williams' well-being and mental health during this difficult time.
In a statement from GoFundMe communications manager, Jeff Platt, it was revealed that Williams was faced with a tough decision: either leave the basketball team or risk his younger siblings being separated in the foster care system. This was not an easy choice for Williams, who had a successful high school basketball career at Oakland High. He was an all-Oakland Athletic League and all-Bay Area News Group first-team selection, averaging 17.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per game in his senior season. He also led his team to their first state championship in school history in 2023.
Just a few games into his freshman year at Montana, Williams received the devastating news of his father's passing after a game at Nevada. Despite his grief, he decided to finish the season and continue chasing his dreams. He had a standout performance just three days after his father's death, scoring 21 points and nine rebounds in a home win over San Jose State. However, his season was cut short due to a foot injury.
Williams was determined to come back stronger in his sophomore year, but tragedy struck again earlier this month. His mother, Latoya Bailey, passed away in her sleep, 319 days after the death of his father. Williams described his mother as the heart and soul of their family, teaching them the value of hard work, resilience, and the power of unconditional love. Her sacrifices and dedication inspired them to dream big and believe that anything was possible.
In light of these tragedies, Williams and his family have set up a GoFundMe page to cover the funeral expenses for their mother, provide for their younger siblings' immediate needs, and ensure stability as they adjust to their new family dynamic. They also hope to support their siblings' educational expenses. The response has been overwhelming, with over $60,000 in donations received so far. The Williams siblings are aiming to raise $75,000, and anyone who wants to contribute can do so through the GoFundMe page.
It's a difficult time for Williams and his family, but the outpouring of love and support from their community has been a source of comfort. Williams is grateful for all the donations and messages of support, and he knows that with the help of his family and community, they will get through this tough time together.
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