Preseason exhibition reconnects two best friends from Lexington

Marques Warrick and Jaylan Green met in middle school and soon became the best of friends. This friendship was due in large part to the game of basketball.

From Childhood to College

They both played basketball for Edith J. Hayes Middle School in Lexington. It was always a competition between the two whenever they were on the court; they were local stars in the making.

Now, both juniors in college, Warrick plays for Northern Kentucky University while Green plays for Transylvania University in Lexington. The two teams made history on Tuesday night as NKU traveled to Lexington to play an exhibition game against Transylvania.

History Making and UK Connections

This matchup was the first time that a Division I school had ever played at Transylvania. It was also the first time that Green and Warrick had played each other since competing in high school. Originally, both players started and shined at Henry Clay High School in Lexington, but Green left and transferred to Frederick Douglass following his sophomore year.

Another important note is that Warrick and NKU are coached by fellow Lexington native, Darrin Horn, father of current University of Kentucky player, Walker Horn.

Holding Their Own in High School

Warrick was a standout player at Henry Clay averaging more than 23 points per game during his senior season. He was named a candidate for Mr. Basketball in Kentucky and finished his high school career with the all-time scoring record of 1,909 points at Henry Clay.

Green also had a successful high school career and finished his senior season averaging about 17 points per game. He was also named to the All-District and Region teams.

Unexpected Reunions

When asked what it was like to go up against Green on Tuesday night, Warrick said, “It was great. It’s probably the last time we’ll ever play against each other so it was really cool.”

Green echoed what Warrick had to say about the matchup.

“We’ve been best friends since middle school, played together there and I never thought I would play him again.”

Both players emphasized how excited they were when they heard the news that they would be going head-to-head this preseason.

Although Transylvania was not able to come out victorious on Tuesday, losing by double digits, Green said that he was glad that they were able to play — and that the team needs to focus on cutting down turnovers.

He also gave high praise to Northern Kentucky, saying “They have a really nice two-three and almost made it to the (NCAA) tournament last year so we just wanted to come out and compete.”

Big Night for Warrick and Flood Relief Efforts

Prior to the game, Warrick announced that the game would be held to benefit the flood victims in Eastern Kentucky with all proceeds going to the relief efforts. Following the first half, he was awarded his own day in Lexington for his exemplary community service efforts.

“Honestly I was surprised,” Warrick said of the recognition. “I did not know this was happening and I never even thought I would have it so it’s just a great honor.”

Not only was Warrick able to have his full circle moment with one of his closest, longtime friends, but he also now has his own day in Lexington. Two things that he never thought were going to happen.

Heading into the 2022-23 season, Northern Kentucky will look to make a deep run in the Horizon Conference as they hold the top spot in the conference preseason. Meanwhile, Transylvania University looks to make its first Division III tournament run since 2020.