Former Five-Star and McDonald’s All-American Tries to Revitalize Basketball Career
While his previous two stops didn’t pan out for this former five-star guard, Arterio Morris has found a new home at Bethune-Cookman. Morris, the former Kansas Jayhawk and Texas Longhorn, has rediscovered his image after issues with law enforcement. He also spent a year at South Plains Junior College in Texas this past season. In September of 2023, Morris was charged with rape following an alleged incident. The charges were later dismissed, but this led to his dismissal from the program and a life-changing accusation that reshaped his basketball career. Morris’s situation is similar to what Auburn’s star guard is experiencing now after his DUI in early July. Although Pettiford remains with the Tigers, Morris wasn’t as lucky, rightfully so given the previous charges.
Can the Wildcats Compete in the SWAC?
The NBA remains a possibility for the 22-year-old as he continues his college career. Head coach Reggie Theus has built an underrated portal this year. Theus recruited high school sensation and former Seton Hall guard Zion Harmon. Central Michigan’s top scorer, Jakobi Heady, is also headed to join the Wildcats. Along with Heady and Harmon, Theus has brought in Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s leading scorer and a player with the coolest name in all of college basketball, Doctor “ Doc” Bradley. With a combined transfer trio averaging more than 60 points per game, the Wildcats could be a March Madness surprise. The key to the Wildcats, however, comes from two names that are less popular than the other transfers. Daniel Rouzan and Ariel Bland are two bigs who can both rebound and provide rim protection. The Wildcats, who have yet to make their first March Madness appearance, have the most talented team in the SWAC.
Can Morris and the Wildcats Make History?
While facing significant hurdles in his career, one thing has remained the same for Arterio Morris, and that’s his basketball talent. Morris previously averaged almost 15 points per game last year at South Plains Junior College in Texas. Harmon, Heady, Bradley, Rouzan, and Bland all provide scoring and reliable defense. Head coach Reggie Theus is confident in his players' abilities and believes his Wildcats are the most talented team in the conference and could make history by reaching their first-ever NCAA tournament.
