Ex-Michigan guard Darius Morris close to Nike sponsorship, may spend lockout time in Mexico City
Former Michigan basketball point guard Darius Morris is among a group of NBA rookies yet to receive a paycheck because of the league's nearly fourth-month-long lockout.
But, apparently, Morris is doing an admirable job stretching his dollars.
According to a Los Angeles Times story, Morris, who was a second-round pick of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2011 NBA Draft, is on the verge of signing a sponsorship deal with Nike to tide him over until the lockout ends.
In addition, Morris said he is considering taking part in an exhibition tour in Mexico City, a trip that would allow him and other NBA players to teach basketball to children.
Morris explained to the paper that rather than indulging in a high-expense lifestyle, he has no qualms living modestly, explaining that his days on a tight dorm-room budget at Michigan have helped him through the early stages of the NBA's work stoppage.
"At this stage in my career, I'm trying to save all that I get," Morris said.
Morris opted not to return to Michigan following the 2010-11 campaign. As a sophomore last season, Morris broke the school's single-season assist record.
Nick Baumgardner covers Michigan basketball for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at 734-623-2514, by email at nickbaumgardner@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @nickbaumgardner.
Comments
Engineer
Tue, Oct 11, 2011 : 1:25 a.m.
Sorry for your luck but you left us. You could have had another year living on the big M but you had better things so tough. The lockout was predicted last year. You need to watch who is giving you advice. The is nothing better than a Michigan degree. You threw that away for greed!
XTR
Thu, Oct 6, 2011 : 10:19 a.m.
Good luck to his individual new career! Too early to go pro and should have stayed for a breakout year in the B1G, then go in the first round next year, that was the perfect plan. But of course has individual plans! lol "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions!" "No Man Is More Than The Team!" "The Team, The Team, The Team!" Dar"I"us Morr"I"s - There were 2 "i"'s in his name!
Dave
Thu, Oct 6, 2011 : 2:53 a.m.
I doubt the sponsorship deal is anything substantial. He really did make a terrible decision in leaving school early. Rather than preparing to win a Big 10 championship, he faces an uncertain future and is not even guaranteed a roster spot on the Lakers. Regardless, I wish Morris the best. I hope he makes the Lakers once the NBA starts up again (whenever that happens) and has a successful career in the NBA. Go Blue, Darius! You will always be a part of the Michigan family.
1959Viking
Thu, Oct 6, 2011 : 1:09 a.m.
I miss him already!