FROM UNDERDOG TO ONE OF THE BEST IN THE U.S.
Senior guard Deshon Taylor is one of the most recognizable names and faces on the Fresno State Men’s Basketball Team. Entering as a transfer in 2015 from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Taylor redshirted his first year with the Bulldogs. Following that season, Deshon stepped on the floor and has played in every game with Fresno State since.
Sam Bittner is a senior guard for the Bulldogs who has played with Taylor since his arrival to Fresno. “Deshon is one of those players that you love to have on your team, but you hate to play against,” Bittner said.
Taylor is an aggressive defender who can shoot the ball from any line. Stephen Trembley, Sports Information Director for Fresno State Men’s Basketball, says that Taylor has been contributing to the team’s success since he was a redshirt.
“When Deshon came here in 2015, he’s a guy that has always brought it everyday, especially on the floor. He’s a big reason why we won the 2016 Mountain West Championship,” Trembley said.
Taylor says his never-quit work ethic stems from his upbringing. His hometown, family, and doubters drive his confidence.
“Where I’m from, Riverside, my dad and my mom, kind of always being the underdog, so you always gotta go out there and prove yourself. That’s kind of what I live by — prove yourself,” said Taylor.
Taylor started his college career in the Western Athletic Conference, but his family encouraged his return to California to play in the Mountain West Conference. Quincy Pondexter–Fresno native and small forward for the San Antonio Spurs–is Taylor’s cousin.
“I knew I was always good enough to play in this environment, this kind of conference. I worked my butt off to get here, I basically had to prove everybody wrong,” Taylor said.
So far this season, Taylor is averaging 19.3 points and 5 assists per game–good enough for first on the team in both categories. But his leadership extends far beyond the court.
Taylor spent his time over the summer volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and the Girls and Boys Club of Fresno. He has visited multiple elementary schools where he encourages the kids to dream big.
“I try to just lead the young guys–lead the younger generation–that anything is possible if you just put your mind to it,” said Taylor.
Losing many of last season’s starters to graduation and having installed a new coaching staff this year, Taylor’s leadership on the team is a big deal for the fresher players on the team.
“To have someone like Deshon who performs well on and off the court is a big deal for our young guys,” Bittner said.
As one of the three starting seniors on the team this year, all eyes will be on Taylor–a feeling his is more than okay with.
