Arlington Sam Houston boys basketball coach receives suspension, reassignment
Darius Williams is no longer the Arlington Sam Houston boys’ basketball coach after being ejected while on probation.
Williams will remain at Sam Houston High School in another coaching position according to Sam Houston principal Juan Villarreal.
Williams was ejected from a January 2024 game, which he did not appeal, and was subsequently put on probation by the UIL. In December 2024, he was ejected again. This time, while on probation, Williams made “smart remarks,” yelled about fouls, and left the bench, according to an official.
In a University Interscholastic League Executive Committee meeting on Monday, April 21, Williams received a five-game suspension. He said that he lost control of his emotions and took full responsibility for his shortcomings. Williams also received three years probation.
After the second ejection, Arlington ISD Athletics gave Williams a five-game suspension, which included practices. At that time, Williams addressed the team and explained his suspension, which he attributed to poor decisions.
In the UIL Executive Committee meeting, Arlington ISD Athletic Director Eric White said he was disappointed in Williams’ actions.
“I think the coach let the competitive moment and some emotions take over his behavior,” White said.
The UIL factored the AISD suspension into Williams’ punishment and and adjusted accordingly.
Williams also took accountability for his actions during the meeting, which UIL officials said is a rarity. AISD provided counseling at the request of Williams, who stated that he had undergone a “spiritual recommitment.”
Villarreal said Williams is “very valuable” to the Sam Houston community and all parties agreed it was in everyone’s best interest to remove him from the head coach position at this time. Williams’ new position is to be determined. If Williams moves to a different sport, his suspension will be re-evaluated by the UIL.
This story was originally published April 21, 2025 at 12:29 PM.
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