Fast-rising SF Tyler Betsey discusses which schools are prioritizing him

Tyler Betsey burst on the scene in July. The 6-foot-8 wing averaged 40.7 percent through 21 Nike EYBL games with the NY Rens 16u program.

“I play defense, and I shoot the ball,” Betsey told On3. “That’s really what I do, shoot the ball; that’s my thing. My confidence grew over the Summer. I watch a lot of Paul George; I love how he plays defense and is very skilled on the offensive end.”

The 2024 wing’s confidence soared in July. He averaged 10.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and shot 45.3 percent from three during Nike’s Peach Jam. On3 caught up with Tyler Betsey recently to talk about the state of his recruitment.

I’d say I’m hearing the most from Rutgers, Penn State, Iowa, Pitt, and West Virginia right now,” Betsey said. “I don’t have any visits set yet. I plan to visit Rutgers soon, though.”

(editor’s note- Betsey was offered by Providence College earlier this afternoon)

Betsey talks recruitment

Rutgers: “It’s not that far from home, so my mom and friends and everyone will be able to come to some games. They like how I play defense and shoot the ball.”

Penn State: “I talk with Coach (Micah) Shrewsberry and Coach Mike (Farley). They reach out a lot and make sure to let me know I am a priority for them.”

Iowa: “I saw what they did with Keegan Murray. He’s like me; he’s big, versatile, and can shoot the ball. So they are intriguing for sure.”

West Virginia: “They’re big on defense, and I know (head coach) Bob Huggins is a defensive guy. I’m still finding out more about them, but I like that.”

Pittsburgh: “They offered me recently, so I’m still learning. They are in the ACC, which is a really tough conference.”

Betsey’s take

“I’m going to look for a coach who is going to let me play my game,” Betsey said. “I want to play for a coach who will let me earn playing time as a freshman and allow me to play through my mistakes.

“Location won’t really be a factor for me in my decision. I do want to play fast, get up and down and shoot the ball. I also want to play man defense.

“I’m from Connecticut and played football growing up. I didn’t start playing basketball until I was ten, so I didn’t grow up watching a lot of basketball or playing it.”

On3’s take

Tyler Betsey has excellent length and a projectable frame. He is a smooth shooter with a quick release and deep range. Betsey is a threat off the catch, with outstanding balance and a high, repeatable release. He uses his length in the passing lanes with natural instincts, getting a lot of deflections. Betsey is a good athlete. He needs to continue to develop off the bounce, creating for himself, but he plays efficiently in the half-court. Strength will be a big thing for him moving forward, but he is developing into the three-and-d type of prospect that is so valuable in today’s game.