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Kansas basketball: Making a case for Arterio Morris, Nick Timberlake, or Elmarko Jackson to start

By Joshua Schulman

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Nicolas Timberlake #25 of the Towson Tigers dribbles up court during the CAA Men's Basketball Championship - semifinal game against the Charleston Cougars at the Entertainment & Sports Arena on March 6, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Nicolas Timberlake #25 of the Towson Tigers dribbles up court during the CAA Men's Basketball Championship - semifinal game against the Charleston Cougars at the Entertainment & Sports Arena on March 6, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /
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Texas Longhorns guard Arterio Morris (2) Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Texas Longhorns guard Arterio Morris (2) Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

Arterio Morris

After watching the first game of the Puerto Rico trip, it appeared that Morris was the clear favorite for the job. The transfer from Texas led the team with 20 points and finished with five rebounds and five assists. He complements Dajuan perfectly with his versatile offensive game and tremendous athleticism. It goes without saying that his ceiling is much higher than the other two — he could truly become one of the most electric KU guards in the Self era.

Morris could benefit Kansas in many ways, but the primary facet of his game that stands out is his defense. He was one of the most ferocious on-ball guard defenders in the Big 12 last season and should only continue to get better under Bill Self. A backcourt comprised of Morris, Harris, and Kevin McCullar should induce nightmares for the rest of the Big 12.

His 3-point shot and playmaking are works in progress, but it’s important to note that he didn’t get much of a chance while stuffed behind several top-notch guards as a freshman with the Longhorns. With an extended opportunity, Morris should be able to develop into the NBA talent he was expected to be out of high school. He will make the Jayhawks’ offense much more potent and force defensive stops multiple times per game.

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