Jerone Morton is bringing a veteran approach to Kentucky’s backcourt.
Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins are expected to be Kentucky’s starting backcourt, but backing them up is senior guard Jerone Morton.
Morton grew up in Winchester, less than an hour from Lexington, dreaming of one day being a Kentucky Wildcat. In fact, before he even started playing basketball, he says there was a Kentucky Basketball in his living room.
So, when the Wildcat staff came calling after he entered the transfer portal, it was an easy decision.
“Coming in here and being able to put on the jersey and practice every day is just a blessing,” Morton said during Thursday’s media availability. “Just playing for my dream school, it’s just a blessing.”
Growing up as part of Big Blue Nation, Morton is well-versed in the program’s storied history and high expectations that come along with playing in Lexington.
“When you put a Kentucky jersey on, it’s just another level of expectations,” Morton said. “Playing for BBN is just different.”
Playing in 92 career games, including 51 career starts, the most of any guard on the roster, Morton brings experience and a veteran approach to Kentucky’s backcourt. With experience comes confidence, which Morton has no shortage of.
“I always have confidence in myself no matter what I’m doing,” Morton said. “I don’t care who it is; they have to put their shoes on just like I put my shoes on.”
With so many offensive creators and in pursuit of more playing time, Morton expressed his willingness to make an impact on defense and be a steady presence on offense.
“I don’t really try to force anything, but defense is definitely one of my calling cards,” Morton said. “I can make shots — I really can do everything I feel like, but defense is definitely one of my strong suits.”
Living his dream, Morton is appreciative of the opportunity to play for Kentucky and make an impact for the program he grew up cheering for.
“I think about it every day. That I’m playing at Kentucky. I thank God so much for this position.”
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