One of my favorite NBA players is Tayshaun Prince. Unlike T-Mac or Dwayne Wade, who you know will do at least three or four remarkable moves during a game, Prince is a low-key player. He does his defense quietly and then all of a sudden before you know it he takes over a game. He is the unexpected factor in games where the Pistons need him and he is getting better at his offensive game this season.
The Detroit News did an article on how Prince’s toughness was always in doubt due to his appearance and lack of bulk.
“It goes back to high school and college. Everybody tried to put weight on me. I just knew, ‘Hey, this is how I play.’ No matter what size you are, when you go out there and play your game, and you have heart and determination, anything can happen.”
But I think what people miss about Prince is that he’s a smart guy. He knows how to read the offense and he knows how to match his opponent’s moves. This is what allows him to guard offensive players like Kobe Bryant and literally frustrate their game. If you combine intellect with love of the game, you have a great player.
Yeah Tayshuan was pretty awesome to watch when he played for Kentucky.