Omarion Jefferson never once ran from hard work during his high school basketball career at Marion High School. As a result, his career will continue in college. The six-foot-11-inch Jefferson signed on Wednesday afternoon with Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis. “I'm just excited to sign with ASU Mid-South,” said Jefferson. “I've come a long way since I started playing basketball, so I'm grateful and excited.” Jefferson played on the Marion varsity for four seasons, performing for teams that made the state tournament four times, advanced to three semifinals, appeared in two state finals, and won the 2019 state championship. “His development has been one of the more positive and inspirational things I've seen since I've been here,” said Marion coach David Clark. “His hard work and determination have paid off in a big, big way.” Jefferson joins an ASU Mid-South program that finished 14-12 in 2021-2022 and played for the regional championship. The Greyhounds earned region championship titles in 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. ASU Mid-South advanced to the NJCAA national tournament in 2018. “I love the facilities over there,” said Jefferson. “I know I'm joining a great program.” The senior expects to play in the post once he arrives on campus. “His best years are still in front of him,” said Clark. “He hasn't been able to play against people his size, his skill, or his aggression yet. It's been smaller players the whole time. Now he's moving up to a stage where he'll get that every day in practice, and that'll only help him develop into a better player.” The senior is looking forward to playing college basketball, but he stresses that Marion will always have a special place in his heart. “I have so many special memories here. I just love Marion,” said Jefferson. “It's a great city, and we had some great teams when I was here.” “He's a Patriot through and through,” said Clark. “He loves his teachers, coaches, administration. He's just a great kid all over.”