Tayton Jackson is a junior at Bristow High School. He has been playing basketball for his entire life, getting his start from his grandpa. “My grandpa has always put a ball in my hands and told me to keep up the hard work and it will pay off in the future,” he says. Growing up, Tayton would always watch basketball with his grandpa. His grandpa would tell him that could be them one day, with Tayton playing ball and his grandpa being there in the stands to cheer him on.  His favorite memory so far, has been starting on the varsity team his freshman year.

Tayton’s biggest positive impact has been his mom. He says it’s because she has always pushed him to be the best version of himself. His biggest role model is Kevin Durant. Tayton says “I have always looked up to KD because he plays at my favorite college, which is Texas, and he is a great player and person on and off the court.” In the future, Tayton hopes to go to college and play college ball, and after that, moving on to playing the sport professionally in the NBA.

Tayton’s favorite subject is history, because he enjoys learning about the past. His favorite teach is Mrs. Howell, because she is a great teacher and often understands where Tayton’s coming from. In his free time, Tayton likes to spend time with his family and be at the gym. Sports have taught him how to be a man, helping him learn to persevere, to work hard, have self discipline, and to be consistent.

Tayton says to be a great athlete, it takes hard work, showing up to practice early, and staying after practice. His advice to his fellow athletes is to work hard, be dedicated to what you do, and never give up.

By Ariel Casida