Matt Morgan: The Raptors Next Great Point Guard

Matt Morgan was born in, Concord, North Carolina and plays Point Guard for the Toronto Raptors G League Affiliate Raptors 905. Morgan played college basketball at Cornell, and averaged 20.5 Points, 4.2 Rebounds, and 2.6 Assists per game throughout his college career. He graduated as the all time leading scorer in Cornell history. He also holds 6 other Cornell basketball records. Since he joined Raptors 905 last season, he has averaged 8.3 Points, 2.1 Rebounds, and 1.9 Assists per game.

Growing up, were you inspired by any NBA Players?

My inspiration growing up was Stephen Curry. Always has been and always will be.

What parts of your game, do you think transitioned the best from college to the NBA?

I think the parts that transitioned from college to the NBA were my shooting ability. Being able to stretch the defense and knock down shots consistently is huge. I think my IQ and knowing the game on and off the ball was big because it helps everyone around me. And lastly I think just being a good teammate. In college we were a family on and off the court. We hung out all the time and I think with the 905 we did that as well to build our team chemistry.

What was it like realizing you were finally in the NBA?

Man it was a dream come true. To know that I am where I almost want to be was an awesome feeling. Still a lot of work to make it to the NBA but I think my rookie year was a huge step in my development to help me get there.

What songs do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I listen to a lot of songs. The artists that I listen to before games specifically are NBA Youngboy, Roddy Rich, Pop Smoke, Drake, Post Malone, Lil Baby, and so many more.

What is your offseason training like?

So training is kind of tough just with the pandemic and not being able to get in the gym consistently but I try to lift 2-3 times a week depending on where I am. But lots of shooting and ball handling. And I try to watch a little bit of film every night just to see myself and what I need to work on.

What was your first G League game like?

My first game was so nerve wracking. I did not know if I would play, then how would I fit in on the court. But once I checked in and got lost in the game it was smooth from there. The crowd in Mississauga was amazing! My coaches had faith in me and it was just an all around great experience playing for the organization.

What advice would you give to a young basketball player who hopes to one day be in the NBA?

My advice would be just keep playing. Do not worry about what your peers are doing, just focus on getting better individually because everyoneś journey is different. We cannot all be lottery picks so find what you are good at and how you can help a team and strive to be the best at that. While improving your weakness to be an all around player.

How can athletes bring about social justice?

Bringing about social justice has been such a huge thing recently and I think the biggest thing is speak up and speak out. We have such a huge platform and such a powerful voice that we need to share it. Helping people understand what is going on, how to help, how to be an ally, or just seeing how you feel can go a long way and I am proud of what we as athletes have been doing in our communities and nationally to affect social change.

What do you want to accomplish during your time in the NBA?

I want to become the best player I can be. I want to take care of my family and really use basketball to better myself on and off the court. It has been an amazing journey so far an I cannot wait to see what comes next.

What is your favorite sports moment of all time, as a fan?

As a fan? Well one was Stephen Curry winning his first championship and MVP. Next I would say the Patriots coming back and winning the Super Bowl against the Falcons. And last probably Kobeś final game. I will never forge those three moments.