By ALEX ABATE ~ DAR Sports Writer

Charleston native Jamarcus Williams is trading in his football pads and cleats for some sneakers and a spot on the hardwood.

Williams committed Friday to play basketball at Three Rivers Community College after attending University of Tennessee-Martin where he was a red shirt on the football team.

"I just missed basketball and want to play," Williams said. "They were fourth in the nation and have a good JUCO program. It is close to home."

Williams had quite a successful basketball career at Charleston, leading the Bluejays to a state title in his senior season. Charleston went to the final four every year he was there, and he averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds over the title year.

"I know I can defend and rebound and bring hustle," Williams said. "I can score a little, too."

The success his senior year puts him in a good position to join the Raiders' squad, coach Gene Bess said.

"He played on an outstanding team his senior year, and I think he will bring that to our program," Bess said.

The 6-foot-4 Williams hopes the tight games in the state playoffs will benefit against new competition.

"I know how to stay focused and play hard," Williams said. "Against great teams and teams that are not so good, you just have to play hard every game."

He played much of the post for the Bluejays but will be looking to round out his skills while in the Black & Gold, Charleston coach Danny Farmer said.

"He can shoot the ball facing the bucket," Farmer said. "He is kind of a natural basketball player and knows the game well with the things you can't teach."

The Raiders haven't cemented him into a certain role or position but will wait to see how Williams, as well as the other new players, mesh together to form a certain playing style.

"We just play him where he fits in," Bess said. "We are really interested in trying to develop his perimeter skills and are excited about him coming."

Along with the Raiders getting a valuable prospect with championship-like experience, Williams will benefit from the program, one with the reputation of success and hard work.

"Jamarcus will get better and couldn't have picked a better place to go," Farmer said.

NOTES: The Region 16 champion will travel to the Region 4 champion for a shot to go to the National Tournament. The game will take place on March 10, 2009. … The 3-point line will be moved back to 20 feet, 9 inches.