When Isaiah Watts committed to Maryland, the buzz wasn't just about his game but also the basketball legacy he carries with him. A Seattle native and former Washington State guard, Watts made his move official on April 11, joining the Terrapins and head coach Buzz Williams who’s been busy reshaping the roster through the transfer portal. This new chapter offers a deeper look into Watts not just as an athlete, but as a young man with a basketball pedigree that runs rich and deep.
For Watts, the decision to transfer wasn't just about improving his game—although his sophomore stats of 11.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game certainly set a solid foundation. Instead, it was a conversation with Coach Buzz that sealed the deal.
Williams stood out as the only coach who spoke to Watts about the importance of personal growth beyond basketball. "You might spend 40 years of life without the game," Watts explained.
"Basketball is temporary, but becoming a man is a lifetime journey."
Watts is no stranger to the pressures of living up to the names of family legends. His grandfather, Slick Watts, left an indelible mark on the NBA, and his father, Donald Watts, made waves at Washington.
Yet, for Isaiah, it was simply growing up around them that laid the groundwork for his basketball aspirations. He recalls, "I didn't know they were famous, they just showed me the way by being real and open."
Though transferring can often be daunting, Watts is unfazed by the move eastward, having already adapted to the rigors of playing high school ball in Connecticut. The familiarity with the East Coast vibe has only added to his excitement about reuniting with former teammate Myles Rice.
Their shared history and Rice's commitment to Maryland played a significant role in Watts’s decision. "He likes to think he's my big brother, but that's my guy," Watts said, full of enthusiasm for the partnership.
Rice’s ability to orchestrate an offense seamlessly is something Watts eagerly anticipates rekindling. "He's one of the best at making sure everyone is in their spots," Watts noted, looking forward to the synergy they can build on the court.
While the transition involves playing with new teammates, Watts approaches it as part of the new normal in college basketball. Today's landscape is dynamic; it sees players frequently teaming up and geling quickly under fresh guidance.
"This will be my third new team, and it's all about putting in the work," Watts shared. With his arrival set for May 26, he's ready to roll up his sleeves and dive into preparations.
Watts's spirit as a competitor shines as he speaks about his goals and mindset. "I'm a worker. No matter the situation, I'm going to compete for that starting spot," he asserted, carrying the experiences of being doubted and overlooked as fuel to his fire.
Off the court, Watts is eager to experience Maryland's famed steamed crabs, ready to see how they compare to Seattle's seafood bounty. He’s arriving with an open mind, a dogged work ethic, and a chip on his shoulder. "I'm coming in with something to prove," Watts said, emphasizing his commitment to rigorous preparation and his readiness to win.
The athlete hasn’t decided on a jersey number yet but is considering honoring his grandfather by donning the number 13. A nod to the legacy he holds close, it represents the family tradition in a new setting.
His game, however, has his father's fingerprints all over it, especially in the shooting department. “My jump shot is my pride, something I might have an edge over my dad in—though we argue over that,” Watts humorously admitted.
As he reflects on lessons from his grandfather, Watts highlights the enduring confidence Slick instilled in him. “He always encouraged me—if I've worked for it, take the shot,” Watts recalled, a philosophy he carries to this day. And while many have left their mark on his basketball journey, he credits figures like Jamal Crawford and Gary Payton, who taught him the finer points of work ethic and the power of competitive spirit.
With a blend of humility and ambition, Isaiah Watts is fully immersed in the promise of a new beginning at Maryland. As Terps fans welcome this charismatic guard, they'll find a player ready to light up the court with both his game and his spirit.
