ALANTA PARTEE had over one-hundred college offers. Stacks of envelopes, endless phone calls, and one decision. Hundreds of college coaches wanted her to hoop for them, but only one school would be lucky enough to snag the 6’3 post player from Orlando, Florida.
That lucky school is Morris College. Morris Collge is a historically black college (HBCU) located in Sumter, South Carolina.
The world has been on edge due to police brutality, misconduct, and shootings which have led people to ask: Do black athletes have a responsibility to attend HBCUs?
Say’s Partee, “I chose to attend Morris College because of what’s going on in the world and I want to be in an environment in which I feel loved and supported.”
After falling in love with the game during her teenage years, she knew that playing on the collegiate level was next on her goal list. Win a state championship — check. Secure a college scholarship — check. She believes that she can do anything that she puts her mind to.
She’s not done dreaming. Partee plans on playing ball overseas in the future in order to be exposed to different cultures and help take care of her family.
“It’s never too late to try to get better, perfect your craft. There will always be somebody better than you – you have to try to be better than them,” said Partee.
Being the tallest girl at your school isn’t always an easy thing. She was taller than her teachers and peers, but basketball gave her the confidence to embrace who she is and use it to her advantage.
Says Partee, ” It’s deeper than basketball, this game changed my life.”