Pair of GRC basketball standouts ink to play in college
Published 10:45 am Tuesday, May 21, 2024
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As the school year came to a close, George Rogers Clark High School seniors had plenty of reasons to celebrate.
Two in particular – Reshaun Hampton and Breland Morrison – had even more so.
On separate days, the two standouts for the Cardinals’ basketball team each signed to play college basketball at the next level, with Hampton agreeing to take his talents to Tennessee Wesleyan University and Morrison agreeing to play with Midway University.
“I think it was very emotional…I really appreciate everybody for coming,” said Hampton. “[Tennessee Wesleyan] really sees something in me, so I [feel good] about that.”
“It was just a good experience…I’m happy to be a [Midway] Eagle,” he said. “I’m just happy to start this journey in life.”
Having worn a GRC uniform since his freshman year, Hampton has been no secret to success.
After the Cards made it to the Elite Eight of the 2021 KHSAA State Basketball Tournament, Hampton played a key role off the bench for the 2022 state championship-winning team, knocking down numerous three-point shots and playing efficient defense.
Returning as a starter for both his junior and senior seasons, Hampton continued to take on opponents as the team finished as state runners-up in 2023 and—despite what many felt might be a rebuilding year—went on to a 30-win season in 2024.
“I’m beyond proud of the progress you have made,” said GRC Head Coach Josh Cook, addressing Hampton. “I don’t think anybody in the 10th Region in the past five or ten years has seen somebody that can…put points on the board so quickly.”
Cook noted that, among other feats, Hampton on multiple occasions managed to connect on seven three-point baskets in a single quarter.
Hampton finishes his GRC playing days with over 1,000 points scored and as reigning 10th Region Player of the Year.
Morrison, who initially played at Christian County High School, joined the Cards for his senior season.
Having entered the starting lineup on opening night, he played a key role in helping the team to a 30-3 record and a 10th Region semifinal appearance.
In the season opener against eventual 10th Region Champion Campbell County, Morrison’s offense played a crucial role in the team’s narrow victory, with 13 points – including several in the fourth quarter – leading the Cards to a comeback from being down by double digits.
He was also named the Most Valuable Player of the Martin Luther King Jr. Classic in January following a 20-point performance against Johnson Central in a high-scoring contest.
Against a tough 11th Region foe in Frederick Douglass, he helped lead the Cards to victory by scoring 12 of the team’s 24 first-half points.
“Thank you for what you do and your commitment to our program,” said Cook, addressing Morrison. “He is a very competent player. He’s got great character, [is] a great teammate, [and] has a solid work ethic.”
Morrison also graduated high school, scoring over 1,000 points.
The two each spoke of what GRC basketball has meant to them.
“I’ll definitely remember the state championship. I’ll never forget that, and I definitely [will] miss my coaches and teammates,” Hampton said.
“It was a good journey. I was happy to play with those guys [and] happy to be there. Thank you to anyone who supported me this season and supported the team,” Morrison added.