Following a number of solid performances for NoVA Gamechangers this summer, rising senior Taiga Walker of Madison High School in Vienna, VA is ready to make a splash heading into his final campaign. The 5'11 combo guard is quick as…
Following a number of solid performances for NoVA Gamechangers this summer, rising senior Taiga Walker of Madison High School in Vienna, VA is ready to make a splash heading into his final campaign.
The 5'11 combo guard is quick as lightning. He thrives by getting into the paint, where he can either score or create for a teammate. Defensively, he plays with unconditional intensity and activity.
“I can do all the stuff a coach wants. I work hard, with good energy and a high motor. I think I can impact the game pretty well,” he said.
At the battle of NOVA in July, Walker broke out with a number of electric performances in which his elite speed was on display. He controlled the tempo on both ends, knowing when to switch gears. He did not score less than 15 points in any single game in the tournament. He's not noted as a perimeter shooter, but has worked hard to improve in that aspect of his game.
“I've been working on to improve my jump shot. Just having the confidence to take threes when I'm wide open and stuff like that,” he said.
Davis & Elkins, Marymount, Hood College, and Dickinson (PA) are the four schools currently showing Walker the most interest.
“They like how I'm a combo guard, and how I can drive to the basket and control the tempo on offense” he said. “Also, they like how I have a good motor, and can keep my team in check.”
Taiga thrives in an environment where his basketball team is more like a family. Last year, he played with his older brother, Sekai, who is now at Mary Washington. He wants to have a similar family-type atmosphere with his college team.
“I'm looking for a coach that will take me in kind of like I'm his son. I want to feel as if the college is my home” he said. “I want to be really close to my coach and be able to get along with my teammates.”
Look out for Walker this year as he will take on the lead role at Madison.