Each and every time Phenom Hoop Report gets to report or sees a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day. It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player.
Here is the latest commitment.
Player: Tyler McKinney
Class: 2020
Committed to: Lincoln Memorial
What the Player Said:
Q: What were some of the factors that went into your decision'
McKinney: LMU just made me feel at home. The coaching staff made me feel wanted and I fit in really well in their system. They also have a history of winning and a culture that I wanted to be a part of. Even if more offers came, I didn’t think that I would find a better fit for myself.
Q: How did you inform the staff and what did they have to say'
McKinney: I called the head coach, Coach Shertz, to inform him before announcing on Thursday. He was ecstatic, told me how happy he was and how good of a fit I was. Said he wouldn’t wait. Then I got similar messages from the entire coaching staff.
Q: What is the coaching staff hoping you can provide to the program'
McKinney: They just like my overall game and how it translates into their system.
Q: What will you want to work on before heading off'
McKinney: I will continue to work hard on my game every day, improving my shot and handles more. And also focus on our ACA team and trying to bring home a state championship.
What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:
“Tyler McKinney was equally worthy of game MVP honors. He finished with 26 points scoring from all three levels. He has outstanding range and touch. McKinney is highly skilled, fundamentally sound, has a high basketball IQ and simply plays with a competitive edge. More importantly, we were also impressed with his vocal and court leadership throughout the game. McKinney plays with a full throttle approach that is appealing and fun to watch.” – Rick Lewis from Carmel Christian MLK Showcase 2020
“McKinney plays with such confidence and composure on the floor, displaying a great IQ and decision making. That doesn’t even mention his smooth shooting stroke from inside and outside the arc. He has good lift and touch on his shot, as well as getting his shot off the dribble.” – Patrick O’Brien from Carmel Christian MLK Showcase 2020
“No matter how much this team changes in personnel, McKinney will always be the glue that holds everything together. His game isn’t flashy or filled with highlights, but it’s undeniably effective and results in wins. McKinney is versatile on both ends, able to actively switch between multiple positions defensively while typically operating as the primary creator on offense.” – Jeff Bendel in Nov 2019
“He’s an extremely well-rounded wing prospect that does a terrific job of affecting all facets of the game in every single contest. McKinney plays very hard and willingly makes the hustle plays on both sides of the ball. He shoots the ball pretty efficiently from the perimeter despite his unorthodox shooting mechanics, but is also capable of getting to the rim at will and finishing strong through contact. McKinney is an unselfish player that can impact the game within the flow of the team concept or step up and take over when necessary. Next in his development process is working to become more vocal, as it will make him a better leader. Coach Bernardi on McKinney: “Tyler broke out in the second and third games of the day. He hit a myriad of three-pointers off the catch and dribble. He has some bounce as well.” – NC Top 80 evaluation