Arterio Morris to transfer from Texas; still facing assault charge

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas reserve guardArterio Morris, who was allowed to play this season while awaitingtrial on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge, has entered thetransfer portal, the school confirmed Tuesday.

Morris was one of the top recruits in the country, but struggledfor playing time in an experienced lineup for Texas, which advancedto the Elite Eight for the first time since 2008. He averaged 4.7points and 11.7 minutes and was expected to be a key component forthe Longhorns under recently promoted coach Rodney Terry.

Texas fired former coach Chris Beard after his December arreston a felony domestic violence charge, which was dismissed inFebruary. Beard is now at Mississippi.

Morris was charged with a Class A misdemeanor after a June 2022altercation with an ex-girlfriend in the Dallas area. Morris’attorney, Justin Moore, has said Morris is innocent.

“Arterio is thankful for the opportunity he was provided to notonly play basketball, but be a student at the University of Texas,”Moore said. “He is looking forward to continue his education andhis progress as a student athlete in the hopes of continuing hisplaying career after college.”

Beard said before the season started that Morris would beallowed to play. Morris kept playing after Terry took over asinterim coach.

Morris is the second Longhorn to transfer since Terry wasannounced as the full-time head coach. Freshman guard RowanBrumbaugh, who red-shirted last season, announced on social mediahe’s headed to Georgetown.