Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Many knew that soon-to-be former GRC Cardinal basketball standout Jerone Morton would be changing flocks.

Now, it’s official.

Last Friday, the senior and all-time leading scorer in George Rogers Clark High School boys’ basketball signed his National Letter of Intent to play basketball for the Eagles basketball team at Morehead State University.

“Jerone is a player that pretty much lets his actions speak for himself out on the floor,” said GRC Athletic Director Mike Ritchie. “[He’s] a very good young man, and [we’re] very excited to see him grow into the future man that he’s going to become.”

Morton, a Mr. Basketball candidate this past season, finished his senior season at GRC with 2,684 points over five seasons, including 131 games where he scored ten plus points.

The Cards won the 10th Region Championship in his last four seasons, becoming the first 10th Region team to four-peat since 1948.

While finishing as a member of the All-State Tournament during the Cards’ Elite Eight finish in the 2020-21 season, Morton led the Cards in scoring en route to being named MVP of the 2022 State Tournament as GRC defeated Warren Central for its first basketball state championship since 1951.

Last season, despite facing stars like Travis Perry and Mr. Basketball winner Reed Sheppard, Morton led the Cards back to the state championship game where they narrowly lost in a rematch to Warren Central and was again named to the All-State Tournament team.

During the ceremony at 2:50 p.m., teammates and fellow students joined to watch while Morton signed at a table adorned with a GRC background.

Morton, wearing a Morehead State University t-shirt, was surrounded by family matters wearing similar attire.

Staff, including GRC Head Basketball Coach Josh Cook, stood watching the signing.

Cook has coached Morton throughout his high school playing experience at GRC.

“He’s built a lot of relationships that will impact our school, our community for many years down the road,” Cook said. “As a player, I don’t think I’ve been around anybody better. He’s a competitor. I know that when he gets to Morehead, he’s going to want to compete.”

Following Coach Cook’s comments, Morton had the opportunity to address the crowd.

“I want to thank everybody for coming out. I want to thank God for giving me the ability and giving me the opportunity to play college basketball,” he said. “Thank you to everyone for letting me feel at home.”

After signing his National Letter of Intent, Morton took time for photos at the table with family members, followed by ones with other members of the GRC basketball team.

Throughout the gymnasium, others waited to take individual photos with the star athlete while cake and other treats were in a separate room for everyone to enjoy.

Though Morton’s playing days at GRC may be at an end, those in Winchester will certainly remember.

“He’s left his mark and I’m forever thankful”, Coach Cook said. “We’ll be following you and supporting you. We’ll always be here if you need us.”