Prospect Spotlight: Jacob Taylor (2018)
Jacob Taylor is a 6’5 senior forward from Bethlehem High School in Bardstown, KY. He also may be one of the more underrated small college basketball prospects in the Bluegrass State. With an enrollment just over 280 students total, Bethlehem High School (though it shouldn’t be) can be easily overlooked, especially playing alongside city school and traditional power Bardstown High School. Jacob hopes to bring some attention Bethlehem’s way this season. “My goal and expectation for our team this year is to win district and compete in the region tournament,” said Taylor.
Through 15 games, Taylor is averaging 17 points and 10 rebounds per game. “Our season is getting better and better the more we play. We have tons of young guys, with Tyler Ohler and I the only ones with varsity experience. So we are trying to get that experience for the young guys.”
Last summer Taylor played AAU basketball with the Louisville Lightning. “I played well that AAU season. The feel like the work I’ve done my whole life is starting to pay off.” Something he’s been working on since then and throughout this season has been being able to knock down the 15 foot jumper consistently. “Other than that, I think my major strength is my first step. I can read the defense, jab, and blow by – maybe pull up for the 15 footer or go all the way, depending on the help defense.” Taylor has also shown ability to play above the rim when attacking down hill in the half-court or jumping passing lanes and getting steal on fast breaks.
Taylor is getting it done in the classroom as well. “I believe my cumulative GPA is around a 3.5, last semester I finished with a 3.8. I also scored a 21 on my ACT.” In looking for a college and a place to continue his playing career, Jacob hopes to find a place that will help him on and off the court. “The school and professors are my number one priority. Then basketball. I want to go to a winning program. I want to leave the school in four years winning the conference and dominating everyone to the best of our abilities. I want to go somewhere that can make me stronger and can develop me as a player.”
Currently holding an offer from NAIA Lourdes University (OH), Taylor says he’s also recieving interest from Malone University, Lincoln Memorial University, Southern Mississippi, Miami University, Anderson University, Newberry College, Queens University of Charlotte, and Barry University.