Breaking Barriers, Building Legacy: Coach Morrison’s Red Rose Thunder Vision for Basketball and Beyond
By: Marc Emile | Sportzwire | August 14, 2025 | Photo courtesy Carrie Miner Yaple @v1sion_media
What began six years ago as an unexpected opportunity to coach an ABA team has evolved into a movement that’s breaking records, changing lives, and reshaping the game of basketball. Coach Morrison started as a boys high school coach and quickly made the jump into the professional leagues. After a strong start and an impressive record, Coach Morrison took a bold step as she bought the team from its previous management, relocated it to Lancaster, PA, and rebranded it as the Red Rose Thunder.
Like many programs, the Thunder were forced to pause operations in 2020 due to COVID. But by February 2021, the team returned to action, joining the East Coast Basketball League (ECBL) and later making a mark in the Philly Pro-Am circuit. The momentum only grew. In 2023, Coach Morrison entered into partnership in The Basketball League (TBL) with the Reading Rebels, and by 2024, they were officially accepted into The Basketball Tournament (TBT)—one of the most competitive and high-profile summer basketball events in the country.
On July 19th, 2024 the Red Rose Thunder made their TBT debut and sent a message in their first outing. They dominated the Groundballers, winning by over 30 points, then cruised past About Billions with another 20-point victory. Though their run ended in the third round against Elite Nation, the Thunder had already established themselves as a force. This quick success not only boosted the Red Roses’ confidence but stamped them as one of the premiere franchises in the league.
Led by standout players Maurice Watson Jr. and Markus Kennedy, the Thunder’s success has been anything but luck. Watson led the TBT in assists per game (APG) last season, while Kennedy led in rebounds per game (RPG). Together, they bring elite experience, chemistry, and leadership.
Just a few shorts weeks ago, the Red Rose Thunder played in their 2nd TBT. Their hopes for a farther run than last year's 3rd round loss were ended during a controversial buzzer beater in their second round matchup. One thing is certain, Coach M, Lucas, and the entire Red Rose family are determined more than ever to make their mark on the world of basketball.
But for Coach Morrison, it's about more than just talent. This year, the Thunder are proudly partnering with the Humaneight Foundation, an organization that designs clothing for neurodivergent individuals while conducting vital research to help create inclusive opportunities. This isn’t just another sponsorship, it’s a personal cause. The GM, her son Lucas, who has Asperger's, is making history as the youngest general manager in TBT history. For him and for Coach Morrison this partnership represents something bigger than basketball. “This is a dream partnership,” she says.
“Winning is temporary. Changing the game is forever.”
Coach Morrison has already made history as the winningest female head coach in TBT history, but she’s not focused on the accolades. Her approach is rooted in purpose, connection, and hard work.
The Red Rose Thunder is a family-based program from players to sponsors to community partners. Every relationship is grounded in trust, loyalty, and a shared mission to grow the game the right way.
Coach Morrison and General Manager Lucas envision a future where the Red Rose Thunder compete nationwide and internationally, using basketball not just as a platform for competition, but as a vehicle for change.
“Do whatever it takes. You have to be willing to do whatever it takes,” Lucas emphasizes.
“This isn’t just a summer project. This is year-round. The hours we put in during the offseason—those are the hours that create growth and success. Whether it’s basketball or life, show up. Do your research. Gain experience. Understand what it really takes to reach your goal.”
From Lancaster to the TBT, from ABA roots to international aspirations, the Red Rose Thunder are more than just a basketball team; they're a symbol of resilience, inclusion, and unstoppable ambition.
