6-foot-5 junior Tyler Bailey might not be the sole straw that stirs the drink on Team Rampage but he's a critical talent on a team currently enjoying a very successful spring and summer. That's because he is multi-skilled, equally adept offensively and defensively. Bailey is willing to play whichever role is required at the moment in order for his squad to have the best opportunity to nab a victory. He is also blossoming, having been named as a 'break out candidate' for this summer and the coming school season.
Is he serious about balling? "Yes, since I was three, basketball caught my eye. I've been training since I was in third grade." His longtime trainer from way back then to now: Marques Smith, originally from Detroit and a former Las Positas College talent.
The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree
Tyler's father Christopher is another major hoops influence. Credited for working out his sons since their toddler days and also later on for taking his male trio to Solano College to work out and play, Tyler offered, "My Dad played basketball and pushes me (to get better) every day even when I'm tired and don't feel like it." Tyler's brother Ryan currently attends Solano College.
Asked to detail his best skills, Bailey was succinct if quite encompassing: "Defense. I'm also a good shooter who can get to the basket and I also pass the ball well setting up my teammates."
About whether he is a leader whether it be with Team Rampage or at Serra High, Bailey said, "Yes, I am. I'm a team player, not always looking for points. I get my teammates involved and I also give talks to pick them up."
Bailey's best basketball moment was more generic than specific but one all sports players and fans can understand and appreciate. "It's coming back to win after being so far down in a game that almost everyone thinks we're going to lose. In those games, I just keep telling my teammates that everything will be okay."
Giving Thanks
To a query regarding who he would like to thank for their efforts during his basketball journey, he responded, "Definitely my Dad, I'm really thankful. Also Marques Smith. I would also like to thank my Mom Shiela Bailey, and my brothers and sisters Jared, Elayne, Ryan, and Kaia, also my Grandparents Gloria and Clifford Ray and Menandro and Remedios Tibayan as they have all had a hand in helping me get to this point."
Academically he sports a 3.2 grade point average and isn't settled on a college major but he is eyeing computer science.
Bailey's recruitment—the texts, calls and zooms—is soon to be constant and fruitful.