Steve Bell on 08-17-2007
8. Jordan Morgan 6-8 PF Detroit U-D Jesuit
Not as athletic as the big guys ahead of him, but just as, if not more, consistent and productive.
Also from Steve Bell
From Divine Child game last year:
Meanwhile Morgan, at 6-8, 230, could get by without another inch or pound and still manage his way in DI. He has a very thick build for a sophomore, both in the legs and torso, a rare combination. As such, he’s not super athletic (missed a dunk), but moves adroitly, with the confidence of a smaller man. Even with his right wrist wrapped, he caught the ball with assuredness. He cleaned the glass like he should have. His post moves were rudimentary, but with a six-inch height advantage he really didn’t need to bother with anything else and was direct and authoritative about it. Morgan got two early fouls in the first half, but was more aggressive getting the ball in the post in the second half. In built and style of play, think Mark Madsen.
Morgan vs OLSM (Detroit Basketball Report)
Jordan Morgan, 6’8, PF, 2009: Morgan led U-D with 14 points – scoring off skilled post moves and outside jumpers – grabbed 10 rebounds, blocked a pair of shots and threw his weight around inside before fouling out with inside two minutes left.
Morgan continues to progress and is looking more and more like a fit in John Beilein’s offense. DBR would be shocked if this situation doesn’t play out in Michigan’s favor.
While Morgan is showing tremendous progress offensively – his range now extends comfortably to 18 feet, and he was able to get OLSM defenders in the air with nice head fakes from 3-point range – he already does the little things that coaches love.
Morgan’s most underrated aspect is his passing – being a baseball standout, he loves the baseball outlet passes – and he has good vision, can run the court on the break and makes good decisions.
He is a presence defensively, good shot blocker, good timing, and takes charges like it’s his job.
His post skill is solid, he possesses a couple go-to moves – a nice jump hook and drop step. One area he needs to develop his strength and aggressiveness down low, and go up stronger when he has the ball and to collect rebounds.
Morgan currently holds offers from Oakland, Xavier, Central Michigan, Drake, and Michigan.
Article on LLP in the Free Press:
“Laval’s never met Coach Beilein and never sat down and talked with him,” his father, Laval Perry, said Sunday. “After that meeting, we’ll have a better feeling about whether Michigan’s the right place.”
Also an update on Alex Legion from the Tribune:
“We’re going there for a visit next week,” Tim Green said. “Illinois is No. 1 with him. It’s the only school he has talked about wanting to visit. He had a conversation with Bruce Weber, they’ve had a chance to talk, great conversation.”
