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In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the college basketball landscape, Finnish guard Morris Ugusuk has committed to the West Virginia Mountaineers, turning down offers from powerhouse programs like Texas, Alabama, and his former team, South Carolina .
From Helsinki to Morgantown: Ugusuk’s Journey
Standing at 6-foot-4, Ugusuk hails from Helsinki, Finland, and began his collegiate career at South Carolina . Over two seasons with the Gamecocks, he appeared in 62 games, starting six, and averaged 4.1 points per game . His sophomore year saw significant improvement, with averages of 5.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and a notable 40.7% shooting percentage from beyond the arc .
Before his time in the NCAA, Ugusuk showcased his talents at the Drive Basketball Academy in Helsinki, where he averaged 17.2 points, 5.3 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game . He also represented Finland at the 2022 FIBA U18 European Championship, contributing to the team’s third-place finish .
A Strategic Addition for WVU
Ugusuk’s commitment marks a significant acquisition for WVU’s new head coach Ross Hodge, who is actively rebuilding the Mountaineers’ roster . With his sharpshooting skills and international experience, Ugusuk is expected to make an immediate impact in the Big 12 Conference .
His decision to join WVU over other prominent programs underscores the Mountaineers’ growing appeal under Coach Hodge’s leadership . As the team continues to shape its lineup for the upcoming season, Ugusuk’s versatility and scoring ability will be invaluable assets .
Stay tuned for more updates on WVU basketball and other transfer news as the offseason progresses.
