Memorial senior Jaden Conner drew praises from coaches for his quiet leadership and work ethic before signing with East Texas Baptist University on Thursday.

“There’s no ‘voluntary’ with Jaden,” assistant coach Basil Brown said, while speaking to students and well-wishers in the Titans’ main gymnasium. “A lot of seniors, when the season’s over, they take a break, catch a breath, and only voluntarily work out with the team. Jaden did not miss one single workout.”

The dedication helped Conner earn an opportunity with the Division III Tigers, who are based in Marshall. Conner is the first Titan to commit to a college program this year.

“It was the best decision for me to continue my athletic and academic career,” Conner said.

Conner transferred to Memorial from Port Neches-Groves for his sophomore year and has seen valuable playing time the past two years while winning a 5A state championship as a junior. Conner averaged 11 points, four rebounds and three assists while leading the Titans back to the 5A Region III semifinal round as a senior.

“He was a multi-dimensional guy, especially on the defensive end,” Lewis said. “He normally checked the best guard on the other team, and he was also a big contributor offensively. He was a guy knowing coming in he would have to play multiple roles on the team. He excelled at it, and I think that’s what will help him be successful on the next level. He’s not a one-dimensional guy. He’s able to do multiple things on the court.”

Conner said he’ll find out his role at ETBU when he gets there. ETBU went 12-14 overall and 8-8 in the American Southwest Conference.

“Coaches said they like me,” Conner said. “I think I’ll fit in good over there.”

•

I.C. Murrell: 721-2435. Twitter: @ICMurrellPANews