Star Watch: Tyshawn Taylor
Coming off a frustrating sophomore campaign, Tyshawn Taylor has emerged as a leader, both on and off the court, for Bill Self and Kansas. In two exhibition games, both blowout victories over Washburn and Emporia State, Taylor, the 6-foot-3, 185-pound guard from Hoboken, N.J., was one of KU's top performers.
Name: Tyshawn Taylor
Advertisement
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 185-pounds
Position: Guard
Exhibition play: It didn't take long for Taylor to prove that he's simply a different player from last year. In fact, it's safe to say that Taylor is a completely different person. Last season, the expectations couldn't have been any higher for Taylor, but the season just didn't play out as expected.
Taylor's troubles of last year have been well documented, so following last year's loss to Northern Iowa; he wanted nothing more than a fresh start, which is exactly what Taylor was given. So far, the former St. Anthony star has taken full advantage of the opportunity he's been given.
Against Washburn, Taylor connected on 4-of-6 field goals, 4-of-5 free throws, scored 12 points, dished out three assists and had two steals. A week later, Taylor, against Emporia State, scored 10 points, dropped six dimes, and added two more steals.
In all, Taylor hit 7-of-11 field goals, 8-of-10 free throws, scored 22 points, dished out nine assists, had four steals and just three turnovers. If Taylor was hoping to send a message to Head Coach Bill Self, his teammates, family and friends; message received.
Up next: Now that the regular season has arrived, don't be at all surprised if Taylor elevates his game to another level. He was rock solid during KU's two exhibition games, but now that the wins and losses count, Taylor, along with his teammates, has something to play for.
Against the Longwood Lancers, don't be at all surprised if Taylor comes out and makes a statement with his play on the court.
Kansas Head Coach Bill Self on Tyshawn Taylor:
"I think he has played really well. I do. He's really trying to talk, to be a leader. He's done a good job."