Murray’s journey ending at McNeese

Brandon Murray has never been afraid of fresh starts.

Murray moved 16 times in his life, living all over the world, so his transfer to McNeese State last summer was no big deal.

“I’m used to it,” Murray said. “In fact, I like the new challenges and places to discover.”

Murray is re-discovering his game after a slow start with McNeese this season. 

Murray, playing at his fourth program in four seasons, is coming on strong for the Cowboys after recovering from a knee injury.

“I got used to moving around, starting new friendships in new places,” said Murray. “College has been no different. I’ve always been the new kid. You always got to find a way to fit in.”

Considering that most of the Cowboys this year have come from elsewhere, Murray is another one of the guys.

“We got guys coming from different backgrounds, different places, and different personalities, but they all want to win and love playing basketball,” said Murray. “That’s what we came here for, to play.”

Basketball’s always been there for Murray. With every move, he found community in basketball.

“I would always find games, which would help me fit in fast,” said Murray. 

And that’s precisely what happened when he came to McNeese. 

“He knew Coach (Will) Wade already and knew his style and offense and defense,” said McNeese senior Javohn Garcia. “He came right in and was ready to be part of the team.”

Murray, a 6-foot-5 forward, has played at big schools around the country in his three previous college seasons, but he got his start in high school. After becoming a prep star in Baltimore, he spent his last high school season at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

That allowed him to showcase his skills on the national level, which led to Murray being on Wade’s radar. Wade brought him to LSU for the 2021-22 season. 

“He is a special player, tough, and does whatever you need him to do,” said Wade. “He plays whatever role we need him to play.”

As a freshman, Murray started 32 games for the Tigers and was their third-leading WHAT, averaging 10 points per game and three rebounds. He was named to the All-Freshman Team.

When Wade was fired at LSU late that season, Murray moved closer to home. He played his sophomore year at Georgetown, and last season, he was back in the SEC at Ole Miss. 

“Nothing changes, it’s still all basketball,” said Murray. “You just have to be yourself and do what it takes for the team to win. I just wanna win, so I’m gonna do my best and work as hard as I can.”

Murray says he came to McNeese because of Wade.

“He is tough but wants to win,” Murray said. “He wants you to play a certain way. I knew that and thought it would be a great place to finish my college career.”

Murray started the Cowboys’ first 11 games but injured his knee just before the Southland Conference season began, missing five games. While averaging 7.7 points a game for the year, Murray has played a more prominent role offensively as of late.

Over the six games back from injury, Murray has scored in double figures four times and is scoring at a 10.1 clip, including a season-best 16 last Saturday in a loss at Nicholls. He scored nine points Monday as the Cowboys improved to 17-6 overall with a win over Incarnate Word.

“I think we are all figuring out our roles, and that took some time,” said Murray. “I don’t worry about who starts; I’m motivated by winning. When I’m in, I will be ready to play. I will give 100 percent for as many minutes as Coach wants to play me.

“I will do whatever to help the team win.”

For the Cowboys, this has meant a 17-6 overall record and an 11-1 mark in league play, which is good for a two-game lead with eight to play.

But it’s just the start.

“We want to get to the NCAA Tournament,” Murray said. “That’s what matters to us.”

If McNeese returns this year, it’s hard to say where they’ll play.

No matter where they go, it won’t matter to Murray. He fits in wherever he plays.