Matthew Mors sees resurgence in third season with SDSU

BROOKINGS, S.D. (KELO) — Matthew Mors is in his third season with SDSU. The Yankton product is one of the key contributors on one of the top teams in the Summit League.

Mors, a multi-time Player of the Year for the Bucks, began his college career at Wisconsin. After one redshirt year in Madison, the forward returned to the Mount Rushmore State to suit up for the Jackrabbits.

“Being from South Dakota to Wisconsin to here, it’s been a long process, but honestly, I wouldn’t change a single thing,” Mors said. “It feels great to be back in South Dakota and just represent something that’s bigger than myself.”

“Once he decided to transfer, we just felt that his style of play, the way he played, the way we play was a match made in heaven,” SDSU head coach Eric Henderson said.

Matthew started half his games during his first year in Brookings but saw his minutes and production cut in half last season. He played just 10 minutes a night.

The forward dedicated himself to getting out on the court. He lost some weight in the offseason and has now started every game this year, averaging a career-best at almost nine points a contest.

“I still just put my head down each and every day, just work as hard as I can,” Mors said. “I just kind of had that same mindset. I think from last year to this year, it was probably elevated at a level where it hasn’t been before.”

“The hard work, the commitment, and to see someone rewarded for that is really, really special,” Henderson said.

Mors reaping the benefits of his hard work serves as an inspiration for the rest of the Jackrabbits.

“Matthew is proof right in front of your eyes of, ‘Hey, you put your nose down. You worked really hard. You stay committed to something. You stay true to something — and you get rewarded,'” Henderson said. “What an example that sets for other people.”

Mors tied a season-high with 15 points in SDSU’s 94-91 win at USD on Sunday. He and the Jackrabbits host rival NDSU Wednesday night.