Recruiting Profile-Payton Tilus
Higley High School is led by State Championship winning Coach Jerome Joseph who’s looking to build a winning tradition at the Division 4A school. One of the returning players who’s looking to make an impact is 6’10” Center Payton Tilus.
High School
Payton can best be described as a raw talent. He was not a significant varsity contributor last season but has worked hard on his game in the offseason playing with prominent Arizona AAU program Powerhouse. Though he needs to build significant strength for his game to be effective, college coaches have been impressed by his skill and agility for a player his size. He runs the floor well and has great touch from out to 15 feet.
“My Expectations for the upcoming season is to get my Higley team to the Playoffs. I want to become the number one shot blocker in the state. I want to improve on my scoring percentage along with my assists. I also hope to support and encourage the younger new players on the team. I am a team player. I listen to the directions of the coaches and take criticism well. I have a good work ethic on the court and in the classroom. I work hard to better myself, for myself.”
As far as areas of improvement, Payton says the following: “I need to be more aggressive. I can work on my full court dribbling along with my outside shot. I need to step up and be the vocal leader of the team. I also need to work on weight gain and muscle mass.”
College Interest
Payton’s recruitment is starting to heat up! He’s receiving interest from several schools after completing a successful live AAU period in July traveling to California and Las Vegas to name a few. Schools such as Knox College and Lake Forest (IL), Trinity University, Ottawa (NAIA-AZ), and South Mountain CC have all been impressed by his play.
“What is important to me on a college choice is; first I am looking for a college with a degree in the field that I am interested in, which is History and Psychology. I am looking for a college that I feel comfortable and it fits my personality. I am also looking for a great College Basketball program with a coach that helps develop me and challenge me.”
Right now Payton would project as a D2 or lower athlete but I wouldn’t be surprised if a low major took a chance on him with his combination or height and athleticism. Once he fills out and gains strength via the weight room he’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Having such a positive outlook and great work ethic I have no doubt that he will be a great addition to anyone’s program!