Aneesah Morrow, a standout forward for the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team, has been a pivotal force in their remarkable season. Recently, Morrow faced a foot injury that, fortunately, did not result in any structural damage. While her return to the court was initially uncertain, she made a triumphant comeback, underscoring her resilience and commitment to the game.
Early Life and High School Career
Born on February 2, 2003, in Chicago, Illinois, Aneesah Morrow was destined for athletic excellence. Her parents, Edward and Nafeesah Morrow, both have rich athletic backgrounds. Edward played linebacker at Nebraska, while Nafeesah was an all-conference forward for the Cornhuskers . Growing up in such an environment, Morrow was naturally inclined towards sports, with basketball capturing her heart.
Attending Simeon Career Academy in Chicago, Morrow’s high school career was nothing short of stellar. As a freshman, she played a crucial role in leading the Wolverines to their first city championship. By her junior year, she was averaging 23 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, propelling her team to a 35–2 record and their inaugural state championship in 2020. Her senior year saw her elevate her performance further, averaging 28.4 points, 14.3 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 2.9 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game. These outstanding statistics earned her first-team All-State honors from the Associated Press, Champaign News-Gazette, and the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association
Collegiate Career at DePaul University
Morrow’s transition to collegiate basketball at DePaul University during the 2021–22 season was seamless. In her debut game on November 9, she showcased her scoring prowess with 31 points and nine rebounds against Texas Southern, earning her the Big East Freshman of the Week accolade. Her performance against then-No. 14 Kentucky, where she recorded 18 points and 17 rebounds, further solidified her reputation, leading to her first United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) National Freshman of the Week honor.
One of her most remarkable feats came on January 30, when she set a Big East single-game record with 27 rebounds, surpassing a record that had stood since 1986. She continued to break barriers, scoring a career-high 41 points in the regular-season finale against Creighton, setting a Big East rookie record .
Throughout her freshman year, Morrow averaged a double-double with 21.9 points and 13.8 rebounds per game. She led the nation in total rebounds (457), rebounds per game (13.8), and offensive rebounds per game (5.8). Her streak of 23 consecutive double-doubles placed her among the elite in NCAA women’s basketball history. Her exceptional performance earned her unanimous selections to the All-Big East first team and All-Freshman team, as well as the Big East Freshman of the Year award. Nationally, she was recognized as the USBWA National Freshman of the Year and the WBCA Freshman of the Year. Additionally, she received second-team All-American honors from Sports Illustrated, The Athletic, the Associated Press, and USBWA, marking her as the first All-American in DePaul’s program history .
Her sophomore season saw her elevate her game even further, averaging 25.7 points and 12.2 rebounds per game. She ranked fourth nationally in scoring and sixth in rebounding, with 25 double-doubles in 33 games. Morrow set DePaul’s single-season scoring record with 848 points, surpassing the previous record of 804 points set in the 1988–89 season. Her outstanding performance led to her being a finalist for the Katrina McClain Award and earning third-team All-American honors from the Associated Press and USBWA
Transition to LSU
In pursuit of new challenges and growth, Morrow transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) for the 2023–24 season. Her impact was immediate, as she became an integral part of the Tigers’ lineup. Her versatility, strength, and basketball IQ complemented the team’s dynamics, contributing significantly to their successes.
The Foot Injury: A Setback
During a game against Texas, Morrow sustained a foot injury after being inadvertently stepped on. The injury was diagnosed as a contusion, with no structural damage, broken bones, or ligament injuries. Despite the relatively mild nature of the injury, it was significant enough to sideline Morrow for the first time in her collegiate career. LSU’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, addressed the situation, stating, “Nees has no structural damage, no hurt ligaments, no broken bones” .
Morrow’s absence was felt during LSU’s game against Georgia, yet the team showcased its depth and resilience, securing a 79–63 victory. Players like Jersey Wolfenbarger and Sa’Myah Smith stepped up, combining for 27 points and filling the void left by Morrow’s temporary departure
Triumphant Return
Demonstrating her determination and commitment, Morrow made a swift return to the court in a high-stakes matchup against the 14th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats. Her presence was instrumental in the Tigers’ 65–58 victory, where she was one of three players to score in double figures, contributing to LSU’s impressive 27–2 overall record .
Impact and Future Prospects
Aneesah Morrow’s journey is a testament to her resilience, skill, and unwavering dedication to basketball.
The Broader Impact on College Football and Athlete Well-being
Ben Christman’s untimely passing has sparked a wider conversation in the college football community about the physical and mental well-being of student-athletes. With the increasing demands of collegiate sports—including rigorous training schedules, academic responsibilities, and the pressure to perform at a high level—many are now calling for reforms in how athletic programs support their players both physically and mentally.
A Call for Improved Medical Screening
Christman’s reported chest pains the day before his passing have intensified discussions about whether college football programs should implement mandatory and more comprehensive cardiovascular screenings. Some medical professionals argue that standard pre-season physicals are insufficient in detecting underlying heart conditions that could lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
Dr. Jonathan Drezner, a leading sports cardiologist, recently addressed the issue in an interview, saying, “We need to go beyond the basic screenings and start implementing advanced cardiac testing for high-risk athletes. Many conditions that lead to sudden cardiac death can be caught early with echocardiograms and more detailed evaluations.”
Universities such as UNLV and Kentucky are now re-examining their screening protocols, with discussions on whether yearly EKGs or echocardiograms should be required for all athletes, especially in high-contact sports like football.
The Role of Mental Health in Athlete Wellness
Beyond physical health concerns, Christman’s death has also reignited conversations about mental health support for student-athletes. While no evidence suggests that mental health played a role in his passing, the tragedy serves as a reminder that collegiate athletes face immense pressures, often balancing academics, performance expectations, and personal struggles.
The NCAA has previously introduced mental health initiatives, but many believe that more structured, accessible programs should be put in place, including mandatory counseling sessions and better support networks for athletes who may be struggling silently.
Changes in Athletic Programs and Institutional Policies
In response to Christman’s passing, multiple schools have vowed to reassess their health and safety protocols. Some proposed changes include:
- Mandatory Cardiac Screenings: Schools such as Kentucky and UNLV are considering implementing yearly EKGs for all football players.
- Emergency Medical Response Training: Coaching and training staff may receive additional CPR and defibrillator training to improve emergency preparedness.
- Expanded Mental Health Resources: Athletic departments are looking into increasing the availability of sports psychologists and mental health counselors.
- Player Wellness Committees: Some programs are discussing the creation of player-led wellness committees to provide peer support and address health concerns proactively.
While these changes won’t undo the tragedy of Christman’s passing, they could help prevent future losses and ensure that student-athletes receive the best possible care.
Tributes from the Football World
Beyond the universities Christman played for, the wider football community has come together to honor his memory. NFL players, coaches, and former college teammates have shared heartfelt messages on social media, acknowledging his hard work, determination, and the positive impact he had on those around him.
Ohio State’s Tribute
Ohio State University, where Christman began his collegiate career, has planned a special tribute during the 2025 football season. The Buckeyes will wear a helmet decal with Christman’s initials, and a moment of silence will be held at their season opener.
Kentucky’s Honorary Recognition
The University of Kentucky has also announced plans to commemorate Christman’s contributions to their program. His former teammates have requested to wear a patch with his number, and the team’s offensive line has dedicated the upcoming season to his memory.
UNLV’s Lasting Dedication
UNLV, where Christman had recently transferred, is planning to establish an annual award in his name. The “Ben Christman Leadership Award” will be given each year to a player who exemplifies dedication, leadership, and commitment to the team.
His Legacy Lives On
Although his life was tragically cut short, Ben Christman’s impact will be felt for years to come. His story is not only one of athletic excellence but also of resilience, kindness, and determination.
As the college football world continues to mourn, the changes being made in his honor serve as a testament to his lasting legacy. Whether through improved athlete health screenings, mental health support, or scholarships in his name, Christman’s influence will continue shaping the future of college athletics.
In the words of his high school coach, Mike Murphey: “Ben was more than just a football player. He was a leader, a friend, and a young man with a bright future. While we wish we had more time with him, we will make sure his legacy lives on in the best way possible.”
As we remember Ben Christman, we honor not just the player, but the person—a teammate, a friend, and a fighter. His story will serve as both an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of valuing every moment we have.