From Apple Valley to All-American
As a kid growing up in Apple Valley, Minnesota, Tyus played on traveling teams several grades ahead of his own and led every team along the way. It was here where Tyus learned the art of team basketball, making everyone around him better. Whether it be starting at point guard on his high school team for five years and leading them to their first ever state title, taking the Howard Pulley AAU team to the Nike Peach Jam, winning an AAU National Championship or winning three gold medals with USA Basketball, Tyus has won at every level.
The Duke Dream
With offers from every major college basketball program in the country, Tyus was inspired by what Duke Basketball exemplified. This meant carrying the highest standard both on and off the court, playing for arguably the best coach of all time in Mike Krzyzewski, and understanding that all eyes were on him and that his actions represented a much larger community than himself. That decision, as it turned out, wrote his own chapter in Duke’s storied basketball history. Tyus led many game-winning performances throughout the 2014-2015 season, however, none more dramatic than the deep three with only seconds remaining in the NCAA championship game. This epic performance as a true freshman led his Duke team to an NCAA Championship and earned Tyus the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player award. Tyus will forever be remembered by his iconic photo that graced the cover of Sports Illustrated.
NBA 2.0
In 2015, Duke’s run to an NCAA National Championship included Minnesota’s own Tyus Jones. Following this incredible season which encompassed Tyus being named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, he declared for the NBA draft. In June of 2015, Tyus was selected in the first round as the 24th pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Within minutes, the Timberwolves traded to bring the hometown hero back to Minnesota. After spending four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Tyus capped off his Minnesota run as the NBA’s all-time assist-to-turnover leader at an incredible 6.96-to-1 ratio for the 2018-19 season. With his rookie contract coming to an end, the Memphis Grizzlies presented a great opportunity to Tyus signing him as a free agent. Tyus continues his hard work and dedication at his new home in Memphis. His goals and dreams continue to be a reality!
