NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State has signed two current high school seniors: Jordan Williams and Matthew Szafoni to Financial Aid Agreements (formerly known as National Letters of Intent) and will begin their college basketball careers in the 2026-27 season.
Jordan Williams – Schaumberg, Illinois / Fremd HS
Williams, a 6-6 wing, is the seventh-rated player in Illinois, and is a three-star prospect from both 247 sports and the 247sports composite. He was named the Mid-Suburban League West Co-Conference Player of the Year and was a junior First Team All-Area honoree. He averaged 14 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game for his Elevate AAU team, earning Third-Team All-Under Armor Circuit honors, and was the second-most efficient scorer in the entire circuit. During his junior season he was named to the Daily Herald Cook County All-Area team.
"Jordan is an extremely versatile perimeter player with great positional size," said Pedon. "He has the ability to score the ball at all three levels and plays through the paint with great efficiency. Jordan's combination of talent and work ethic will allow him to shine in the years ahead. We couldn't be more excited to welcome him to our basketball family."
Matthew Szafoni – Chicago, Illinois / Lane Tech HS
Szafoni, a 6-8 forward, helped Lane Tech to a 20-12 overall record, as he averaged 8.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. He led the Chicago Public – Red South in assists per game and was fourth in blocked shots per game. He played for the Elevate AAU team alongside future Redbird teammate Jordan Williams.
"Matthew came out of nowhere this summer, and we were instantly impressed by his combination of size, skill, and athleticism," said the Redbird head coach. "His ability to impact the game, both inside and out, with the skill he possesses at his size is something we value at a high level. He is a late-bloomer, and we look forward to coaching him as a Redbird in the coming years."
