Top-50 junior Tyler McKinley talks his recruitment, timeline

Ohio has had plenty of talented prospects to come out of the state over the last few years.

Add Tyler McKinley to the pipeline. The 6-foot-9, 210-pound forward out of Link Prep in Missouri, formerly of Walnut Hills in his home city of Cinci, is a dazzling prospect, seen anywhere among the Top-60 or 70 prospects in the 2024 class. That will change. You talk about grit and grind, McKinley has impressed coaches through not only his skill set but, his elite motor and just playing hard on both ends.

Not many can navigate the floor at that size as McKinley does. Plays well through traffic, can score from multiple spots, and doesn’t shy away from involving his teammates and also making the extra pass.

As far as the 2024 class goes, I’ve witnessed McKinley’s development over the last 15 months and his progress has been impressive to watch.

Let’s look at his early progression:

In his freshman campaign, he averaged 10.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.

As a sophomore this year, he had 17.2 points, and 7.4 boards, and shot nearly 70% from the field.

On the EYBL circuit last summer? His totals on the circuit were 17.3 points, 8.6 boards, and 3.1 assists per game. The Cincinnati native has also asserted himself as one of the most dominant defensive prospects on the EYBL circuit, he was Top-10 in blocks this year for NIKE EYBL.

Now, McKinley is continuing to be a key contributor on the floor, this time for Link Academy. 

McKinley updated his recruitment with Stockrisers.com.

Which schools are heavily involved?

“Cincinnati, Xavier, Michigan State, Tennessee, Ohio State, and WVU.”

Any new schools?

“No.”

What’s UC’s pitch?

“To make the best person out of me. The relationship I have with Cincinnati, it’s strong especially since it’s my hometown. They want to rebuild the program and win now.”

Michigan State?

“The development in my position and getting me to the next level is their pitch. I want to visit, I just don’t know yet.”

Ohio State?

“I like O State. They produced some good forwards over the last few years and they should be good in the next few years as well.”

Thoughts on Xavier?

“My mom went to Xavier and I went to their games a lot when I was younger, so it’s just a blessing for the opportunity and Coach Miller with the history of NBA players but just the person he is. He’s great and we had great talks and he has a lot of knowledge in the basketball world.”

And as far as visits, any plans?

“I want to plan Tennessee, Ohio State, Xavier, Michigan State, and WVU in the future.”

Do you have a list-cut timeline?

“Most likely after Peach Jam.”

And a commitment following that?

“Yes.”

How’s your time at Link been and where have you improved since going?

“Going good. I improved physically and I’m still trying to find my rhythm to impact the game, even just coming off my injuries. Just trying to do everything to win, I also feel like I’m improving off the court as far as day-to-day schedules and living.”

At this point today, how would you break down your game?

“Versatile forward on both sides of the floor and a great passer.”