Will Shields, DeAngelo Williams finalists for Wooden Award
 

DeAngelo Williams Listed as a Finalist for John Wooden Trophy
Memphis tailback one of just six collegiate athletes vying for the trophy.

Nov. 22, 2004
MEMPHIS, TENN. - University of Memphis junior tailback DeAngelo Williams has been named one of six collegiate finalists for the John Wooden Trophy which is presented by Athletes for a Better World.

Voting on the finalists began on Friday by 100 electors from all 50 states. Electors represent a broad cross section of American life chosen from business, government, education, public safety, law, medicine, finance, media, sport, clergy, and, many other occupations. They all share the belief that character, sportsmanship, and civic responsibility are essential elements of sport.

The ceremony to present the award will be held in Los Angeles on Jan. 10, 2005. One trophy will be presented to a collegiate winner, and one will be presented to a professional athlete.

Joining Williams as a collegiate finalist are: William Betz (swimming, BYU), Dionnah Jackson (women's basketball, Oklahoma), Clark Lea (football, Vanderbilt), Caroline Renkin (women's soccer, UNC-Wilmington), and Michael Williams (football, Stephen F. Austin).

The professional finalists include Ray Allen (Seattle Sonics), Sue Bird (Seattle Storm), Tim Duncan (San Antonio Spurs), Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts), Will Shields (Kansas City Chiefs) and Dawn Staley (Charlotte Sting).