The University of Arkansas is set to unveil a statue of basketball legend Corliss “Big Nasty” Williamson at Bud Walton Arena, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Razorback history. This permanent tribute will join the retired No. 34 jersey hanging in the rafters, commemorating Williamson’s indelible impact on the program and college basketball.
Williamson’s journey from Russellville, Arkansas, to national prominence began in high school, where he was a three-time all-conference and all-state selection, and named the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 1992. He led Russellville High School to the King Cotton Classic championship, blocking a potential game-winning shot by Jason Kidd in the title game. His #34 jersey has been retired by Russellville High and hangs on the wall of the school’s arena, along with his McDonald’s All-American jersey.
At the University of Arkansas, Williamson’s collegiate career was nothing short of spectacular. He played from 1992 to 1995, leading the Razorbacks to their first NCAA national championship in 1994 and a runner-up finish in 1995. Williamson was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 1994 Final Four after averaging 26.0 points and 10.5 rebounds in Arkansas’ two wins. He was also a two-time SEC Player of the Year and a two-time AP All-American. Over his three seasons, he scored 1,728 points, ranking eighth all-time in school history. His jersey (#34) is one of only two that have ever been retired by the University of Arkansas, alongside Sidney Moncrief’s
Following his collegiate success, Williamson had a 12-year NBA career, including a Sixth Man of the Year award in 2002 and an NBA championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He has since transitioned into coaching, serving as both a collegiate head coach and an NBA assistant coach. His contributions to the game have been recognized through his induction into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
The statue at Bud Walton Arena will serve as a lasting reminder of Williamson’s dedication, skill, and the pride he brought to the Razorback community. It will stand as a permanent symbol of his impact on the program and college basketball history. The unveiling is set to align with a special event during the upcoming season, providing fans and alumni an opportunity to celebrate his legacy.
As the Razorbacks continue to build upon their storied history, the addition of Williamson’s statue ensures that his contributions will never be forgotten, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
