Kanyon Taylor, Valley basketball, Jr.

On the court: The 6-foot-9 junior post played a huge part in Valley’s historic run to the UIL Class 1A Division I state championship game. Though the outcome didn’t go as planned as Valley fell to Perrin-Whitt 65-46 last Thursday, it doesn’t take away what Taylor and his team accomplished. Playing in the school’s first state semifinal game since 1983, Taylor dominated during a 60-37 blowout win against Garden City. Taylor ended that game with 19 points and three dunks helping punch the Patriots ticket to San Antonio. In the state championship game, Taylor faced constant double teams but still tallied 12 points with seven boards.

Taylor ended his tremendous year playing in 37 games averaging 15.5 points a night with 6.8 rebounds.

Coach Aaron Green: “It was a tremendous year for us. We ended the season with 34 wins, we on a district championship and made a special run to the play for a state championship. I was so proud of this team and especially a player like Kanyon. He was huge for us all year and having his little brother Corbin next to him was special. He just got so much better and matured through the entire year. He is a hard worker, a true competitor and is ready to make another run next year.”

Taylor: “We knew we had the potential for a special season, and it showed throughout the year. We really started to gel down the stretch and it was amazing to get to state and make school history for Valley. I think this year I was able to become more of a leader. I felt my defense was much improved especially as a shot blocker. Offensively, I started to understand the game better and worked on being a better passer.”

About Taylor

Favorite band or musician: Little Yachty

Favorite social media platform: TikTok

Favorite athlete: Travis Hunter or LaMelo Ball.

Bet you didn’t know: He lived in China until he was in third grade.

Parents: Jeremy and M’Lynn Taylor.