Isaiah Taylor

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Texas 74, Baylor 69

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 | Frank Erwin Center (Austin, TX)

Isaiah Taylor

Season (30 mpg): 13 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4 APG, 1.1 SPG
40% FG, 75% FT

Game: 13 pts, 7 ast, 3 rbs, 1 stl, 1  blk, 3 to
5-11 FG, 0-0 three-point, 3-4 FT

Outlook: Taylor is one of the most “under the radar” freshman in the country. He’s emerged as the x-factor for this Texas team.

Right now, his game is predicated on penetrating the lane…and rising for a floater. Taylor has an impeccable floater, to the point that it’s his first, second and third option on offense. 53% of his shot attempts are of the “runner” variety—an inordinate amount—and he certainly forced this issue vs. Baylor. To his credit, it worked.

Taylor showcased a quick first step to penetrate the lane and finish. He has a high-arching floater, using difficult angles to get his shot off. One of the most consistent—and beautiful—floaters in the country. He creates space off the dribble, and finishes with ease. Taylor also has pesky and active hands, to come up with rebounds and steals.

All that being said, Taylor has a lot of room for improvement on offense. The next step is polishing his jump shot, and finishing with consistency around the basket. He’s 9-40 on jump shots this season; and he’s finishing only 44% at the rim, including an average 1 point per attempt.

Taylor already has a near-perfect touch inside the lane, and the upside to contribute in various offense and defensive categories. If he can add muscle to his frame, and develop a consistent jump shot, he should eventually garner NBA consideration as a combo guard. He’s already the focal point of Texas’ backcourt.

Video

13 points vs. Baylor

Misses (5-11)

Excellent Floater

Poor Jump Shot

Finishing Struggles

Simple Passes (assists)