Kansas University sophomore guard Brady Morningstar has decided to wear a red shirt during the 2007-08 basketball season.

Morningstar, a 6-foot-3, 187-pound sophomore out of Free State High, will practice and travel with the Jayhawks, but not play in any games. He’ll have three years of eligibility remaining starting next season.

“I feel it was the right decision to make,” said Morningstar, who informed coach Bill Self of his choice before Friday’s practice. “I’ve got to become a more prolific three-point shooter and also be able to shoot off the dribble and catch. If you can shoot it and defend, coach will find some place on the court for you.

“My quickness is obviously a huge key and shooting the ball and ballhandling, everything. Nobody’s game is perfect. I’ve got to work on everything. I’ll take the red shirt and hopefully contribute big things to the program.”

Self believes Morningstar made the right call.

“I think he should do what he and his family feel is best for him. I think this is a good play for him,” Self said. “I think he’ll be a better player as a fifth-year senior than he will as a second-year sophomore.

“I think it’s smart. It’s tough because he wants to be out there, but he’s not going to miss any games. He’ll travel with us and be part of the team, just as he would if he wasn’t red-shirting. This is a good opportunity for him.”

Morningstar said he already has come to grips with his decision.

“It’s going to be tough to just sit there and watch everybody playing, but in the back of my mind, I’m going to be, ‘It’s the right decision,”’ Morningstar said. “I can’t wait for next year. Hopefully time will fly by, I’ll be healthy and we’ll have a great year. I’ll be a veteran sophomore next year.

“KU is where I want to play,” he added. “That’s why I came here, to play. I’m not the person to shoot left, and go somewhere else. I’m here. I’m glad I’m red-shirting. It’s the right decision and I’ll make the best of it.”