Tra’Michael Moton from Grambling State University is not one to talk about what he’s going to do. He’s not really going to talk much at all, and it’s about the only flaw that you can find in his game.
“Ain’t the most vocal guy. I’m always on him about being vocal, leading and being a guy that’s an everyday person. That’s the one thing that I challenge him to be, an everyday guy because we got about four sophomores over here that’s playing and that’s looking and trying to figure out what life will be like after him. So he has to set the example and he does it all the time,” said Grambling head coach Donte’ Jackson.
Moton is a fifth year senior who has played significant minutes ever since his freshman year. While he may be soft spoken, his play does all the talking for him. He leads the team in steals, assists and is second in scoring. He views his job on the court as one that keeps the machine running.
“Make sure (we) are all on one page, even if they make a bad play or anything, we’ll keep them going so the energy can be the there,” said Moton.
Moton’s play could lead Grambling to its first ever SWAC Championship. He could eventually be an HBCU All-Star next month in Phoenix. But so far this season the recognition and accolades haven’t come from the outside. His laid back demeanor maybe doesn’t attract the outside attention that a player of his caliber deserves.
Recognition remains slim
Moton wasn’t voted as an All-SWAC player this year, although teammate Kintavious Dozier was selected first team and Jackson was named Coach of the Year. It’s a slight that the coach seems to take more personally than the player.
“You know, I feel like Tra’Michael should have been first team all conference. I feel like we got two first team guards and for him not to get nothing I felt it was like totally disrespectful in this league like this guy, has won more than anybody that’s out there right now. He’s the engine that make us go. Personally, I feel like he’s the player of the year,” Jackson said.
Update
Moton was selected to participate in the 2024 HBCU All-Star game in Phoenix, where 24 of the best HBCU seniors were selected to play. This honor came after he was named SWAC Tournament MVP when Grambling defeated defending champ, No. 3 Texas Southern 75-66 for the school’s first NCAA Tournament berth.