UNLV's Demetris Morant Transferring To FGCU?

According to a report from the Review-Journal, UNLV forward Demtris Morant is transferring to be closer to his ill father in Florida.

The same report notes that he will seek a waiver and "is most likely transferring to Florida Gulf Coast." Whether this comes to fruition or not, we will know in the coming days (and the Eagles Nest will keep you updated).

Morant, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 3.8 minutes a game in 13 appearances for the Rebels last season. UNLV redshirted Morant his 2012-13 season so during the 2013-14 campaign, he played as a redshirt freshman.

Prior to his time at UNLV, Morant led Bishop Gorman HS (Las Vegas, Nev.) to two straight titles. The Rivals rated three star recruit was ranked in the top 150 in the class of 2012. He choose the rebels over San Diego State and also held offers from Memphis, Texas A&M, and New Mexico.

Morant, who was born in Miami, Fla., is looking to be closer to his father, Leroy.

“Demetris has been granted his release and he will be transferring,” coach Dave Rice said to the Review-Journal. “His dad has been very ill. We will support a hardship waiver 100 percent. He’s a great kid, and he’s done a great job for us academically.”

A hardship waiver would enable Morant to play immediately. The situation is similar to FGCU WBB's Kaneisha Atwater who was eligible to play immediately following her transfer from VCU.

His potential transfer would fill FGCU's 13th and final scholarship for the 2014-15 season. The Eagles were reportedly trying to secure one more forward to polish out a thin looking front court. Morant fits the ball. Also, the same report from the news-press noted that Butler transfer Nolan Berry will also be on campus from Tuesday to Thursday, for a visit.

This news comes in a busy week for FGCU basketball. Former Eagle Eric McKnight announced he will transfer to Tennessee while ex-FGCU guard Christophe Varidel will be headed to Alabama. Now in the pro ranks, 2013 Atlantic Sun Player of the Year Sherwood Brown will spend his spring with Fuerza Guinda de Nogales in Mexico. In his debut, Brown recorded 12 points and 2 rebounds.

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