As expected, Nathan Hale High School star Michael Porter Jr., released from his obligation to the University of Washington Thursday, will play college basketball at the University of Missouri.
Michael Porter Sr., left, will be joined his his son, Michael Jr., at Missouri. Will Conroy, center, will remain as an assistant to new head coach Mike Hopkins. / Alan Chitlik, Sportspress Northwest
A day after he was granted a release from his national letter of intent from the University of Washington, prep sensation Michael Porter Jr. announced that he would, as expected, play college basketball at the University of Missouri in his hometown. He will follow his father, Michael Porter Sr., hired as a Missouri assistant Thursday.
“Last week everything changed for me regarding my college basketball decision,” Porter said in a statement Friday. “Realizing I would no longer have the opportunity to play for Coach (Lorenzo) Romar, I have taken the past seven days to give great consideration to my future.
“After a lot of thought, prayer and talking with my family, I’m excited to announce that next year I will be playing at the University of Missouri!
“I’m looking forward to the year ahead with Coach Cuonzo and my new teammates. Together we hope to restore the atmosphere at Mizzou Arena.”
Porter. the Naismith and Gatorade National Prep Player of the year, averaged more than 30 points per game in leading Nathan Hale High School, coached by former UW star Brandon Roy, to the 3A state championship. His father, a longtime friend of Romar’s, served as a Romar assistant last season.
In the wake of Romar’s firing, and before Mike Hopkins succeeded him, the Huskies lost a commitment from four-star point guard Blake Harris. Huskies reserve Matthew Atewe also announced his intention to transfer. Starting forward Noah Dickerson is reportedly on the verge of transferring.
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