Morgan County basketball player Ryan Moore recently put pen to paper and signed with Reinhardt University.
Moore, who graduated in May, is excited about the opportunity to continue his hoops career at the next level. He took a trip to Reinhardt’s campus, which is a few hours away in Waleska, and “fell in love.”
“I fell in love on a recent visit, and I told my mom I wanted to go there,” Moore said. “The coach, facilities, and everything was great. We did the paperwork and everything we needed to do for my scholarship and committed within three days after that trip. We then had a signing ceremony, and it became official. I’m excited.”
Moore dreamt of playing college basketball as a kid, and now, he’ll live out his dream. The 6-foot-1, 230-pound shooting guard can’t wait to get on campus and wants to make an impact in his first year with the Eagles.
Moore said he feels blessed to have this opportunity and believes he can succeed at the college level.
“It feels great, especially because I’m not supposed to be in this position. I had to stop playing basketball, but a door opened up for me my senior year at Morgan County,” Moore said. “So, I am very grateful I am getting a chance to play. It’s something I have wanted to do for a long time. I want to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Moore started his high school career at basketball powerhouse Newton but transferred to Morgan County his senior season to play for Cody Anderson, and the Bulldogs’ head coach significantly impacted him.
Moore greatly appreciates Anderson allowing him to play at Morgan County and helping him land a spot on Reinhardt’s roster. The future Eagle learned a lot from Anderson in less than a year.
“This past year meant everything to me because if I hadn’t gone to Morgan, I probably would be working a job somewhere after high school. Just living a regular life,” Moore said. “But a door opened up for me, and I got to play again. It meant a lot to me. Coach Anderson took his time with me because I hadn’t played in over a year, but he saw my potential. All the coaches believed in me. I worked and worked and worked. The coaches were right there by my side. They helped me out through everything and made me who I am today.”
Anderson was happy to have Moore play for him and recognized him as a leader for the younger guys on the team.
“One of the greatest joys in coaching high school basketball is seeing young men develop and achieve their dreams. I am so happy for Ryan and his family on his commitment and signing to play college basketball at Reinhardt University,” Anderson said. “Ryan’s journey was unique and filled with ups, downs, and plenty of surprises.
“Ryan brought a veteran presence to our team last year, showcasing his tremendous ability to shoot the basketball. Ryan’s best days are ahead, and I am thankful for all he did for our program during his lone season at Morgan. Our staff and I look forward to following him as he begins this next chapter at Reinhardt.”
Moore was named to the All-Region 4-AAA honorable mention list for his performance as a senior on the hardwood. He looks to continue his success as a basketball player for Reinhardt and make an immediate impact.
“To be honest, I never thought I would get a chance, and the coach at Reinhardt [Justin Newton] gave me one,” Moore said. “After my workout, I received a scholarship and was very excited. I’m ready to get up there.”