BATON ROUGE, LA – LSU Tigers women’s basketball star Aneesah Morrow was overcome with emotion Thursday night, breaking down in tears after receiving the prestigious Pericous Maxwell Award for Excellence and……
The award, one of the highest honors in collegiate athletics, was presented to Morrow during a special ceremony at LSU’s Pete Maravich Assembly Center. The event was filled with excitement, anticipation, and an overwhelming sense of pride for Morrow’s remarkable achievements both on and off the court. Her emotional reaction to the recognition reflected the immense pressure she has faced over the past few seasons, the sacrifices she has made, and the tireless dedication she has given to her craft.
Morrow, who transferred to LSU from DePaul University in 2023, has made an immediate impact on the Tigers’ program. A prolific scorer and fierce competitor, she has been the backbone of LSU’s offense, leading the team with impressive stats and providing leadership on the floor. Her performances have earned her numerous accolades, including All-American honors and a reputation as one of the nation’s top players. Yet, it was her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life that made her a standout candidate for the Pericous Maxwell Award.
The Pericous Maxwell Award for Excellence is named after a distinguished LSU alumnus who made significant contributions to both athletics and academics. The honor is bestowed upon student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their respective sports while maintaining a high standard of academic achievement and community involvement. Morrow’s balance of athletic excellence and her ability to maintain a strong academic record made her an ideal recipient of this prestigious recognition.
Morrow’s path to this moment has not been without its challenges. In addition to the intensity of competing at the highest levels of NCAA basketball, she has had to adjust to a new environment and new teammates. Transitioning from DePaul to LSU was a monumental step in her career, and Morrow has risen to the occasion. Under the guidance of head coach Kim Mulkey, Morrow has flourished in the team’s system, showcasing her versatility and basketball IQ. But what truly set her apart is her perseverance and her ability to overcome obstacles.
“Tonight, I’m just overwhelmed,” Morrow said through tears during her acceptance speech. “This award represents everything I’ve worked for—years of dedication, late nights, early mornings, sacrifices, and the incredible support I’ve had from my family, coaches, and teammates. I couldn’t have achieved this without all of them. This is not just for me; it’s for everyone who has believed in me.”
The moment was especially emotional as Morrow spoke about her journey, from her humble beginnings in Chicago to her rise to prominence in college basketball. “I came from a place where dreams seemed far-fetched,” she explained. “But every challenge I’ve faced, I’ve used as motivation to keep pushing forward.”
Her commitment to excellence extends beyond basketball. Morrow is known for her involvement in various community initiatives, where she serves as a role model for young athletes. She regularly participates in youth basketball camps, mentors younger players, and is an advocate for academic success among student-athletes. Morrow’s positive impact has been felt both on the court and in the Baton Rouge community.
In addition to her athletic prowess, Morrow’s work ethic has been widely praised. Her coaches and teammates frequently speak about her leadership qualities and her relentless drive to improve. She has earned the respect of her peers, not only for her athletic skills but also for her humility and dedication to the team’s success. Morrow’s ability to stay focused while managing the pressures of being one of the country’s top players is a testament to her maturity and discipline.
LSU TIGERS TICKES “Aneesah is the epitome of what it means to be a student-athlete,” Mulkey said. “Her work ethic, her passion for the game, and her character are all qualities that we strive to instill in our players. She’s not just a great basketball player; she’s a remarkable individual.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, Morrow received a standing ovation from the crowd, a fitting tribute to a player who has become a symbol of excellence for LSU. While this award marks another milestone in Morrow’s already decorated career, it is clear that she is far from done. With the NCAA tournament on the horizon, Morrow’s journey is far from over. And as she continues to break barriers on the court and in the classroom, she is sure to inspire the next generation of athletes to dream big, work hard, and always strive for excellence.
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