By Elizabeth Contreras
Jay High School senior Ryan Taylor has spent nearly a decade in pursuit of his basketball dreams. A standout for the Bulldogs, Taylor’s aggressive style and tireless commitment have made him a key player, even as he faces an injury that will sideline him for his final season.
Known for his ability to push downhill and attack the rim, Taylor has spent years refining his skills, looking for layups or opportunities to draw a foul.
“I’ve worked really hard on getting to the rim,” he explained. “I constantly worked on it in practice, tried moves in games, and slowly kept progressing until I was right where I wanted to be.”
A driving force in his athletic journey has been the dutiful support of his parents and his faith in the Lord.
“My parents and the Lord,” he said simply when asked who inspires him.
Team chemistry is also another driving force, and Taylor said the bonds formed over more than six years are unmistakable.
“Our team chemistry is insane. We’ve known each other for 6+ years, and our bond just keeps continuing to grow stronger,” he said.
Off the court, he emphasized the importance of showing up for yourself and for others, further fostering the positive relationships among teammates.
“Always show up for yourself and your teammates. Do the right thing, uplift others so they enjoy the sport, and tell people what they should hear even though they may not agree; it’s best for them and the team,” Taylor explained.
Though he won’t be on the court this year due to an injury, his support for the team and their goals remains unwavering.
“Although I can’t play this season, I still expect our team to do really good. This year is a very special year for us,” he shared.
While his plans after high school won’t include basketball, Taylor said his goals for the future are clear.
“I plan to get my business degree and then also become an HVAC technician,” he added.
His advice for those pursuing their own passions is to care for your body, stay committed to the pursuit, and rely on faith to navigate challenges.
“Always pray when things get tough, because the Lord will always be with you.”
