4-star PF Tyler McKinley names top 7 schools

Tyler McKinley, a four-star power forward in the class of 2024, has narrowed his list of schools down to seven: Alabama, Cincinnati, Michigan State, Ohio State, Tennessee, Virginia Tech, and Xavier.

The 6-foot-9, 220-pound junior is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio but currently plays at Link Academy in Branson, Missouri. McKinley has taken one official visit (Cincinnati) and has taken unofficial visits to Xavier and Ohio State.

Along with his seven finalists, McKinley also received offers from West Virginia, Pitt, Auburn, Ole Miss, and others.

According to the On3 Industry Rankings, McKinley ranks as the No. 65 overall prospect in the 2024 class. He’s also the nation’s No. 10 power forward and the No. 3 player in the state of Missouri.

McKinley talks programs involved

In a previous interview with On3, Tyler McKinley discussed several of the programs involved in his recruitment.

Cincinnati: “Wes Miller is a family coach. I know this is a business, and it’s his job, but he has created one big family atmosphere in how he talks to his players. They were the first school to contact me on June 15, right at midnight. Coach Miller and Coach Dre (Andre Morgan).”

Xavier: “They are talking about how they are looking to develop me. But Sean Miller he’s been more than a basketball coach for me lately; he’s been more of a mentor. We’ve talked about the ins and outs of high school. He told me about little tips and tricks for out here at USA. It’s just good to know I got Coach Miller on my side.”

Tennessee: “They produce and develop their forwards. They got a great staff shoutout to Rod Clark; he’s a great guy. I have two great friends and teammates of mine (Cade Phillips and Cam Carr) who are signed with Tennessee, and they keep telling me it’s a great program.”

Michigan State: “They like that I’m a versatile four. I can facilitate a lot on the floor and open up plays for my teammates. They see me a lot like Draymond Green, and I know Tom Izzo can develop me to be the best player I can be.”

Ohio State: “Coach (Chris) Holtmann wants me to come and be a Buckeye. I mean, I’m a kid from Ohio, so playing for Ohio State would be a dream.”

McKinley discusses his game, what he’s looking for in a school

In a previous interview with On3, Tyler McKinley broke down his game and said what he’s looking for in a future program.

“I’m a versatile forward who is an overall good basketball player,” McKinley told On3. “Coming to Link Academy, playing with 12 high major guys, I’m expanding my game, doing anything I can to help my team win. With the work I’ve put in on my body this season, people will see this summer how in shape I’m in.”

He also knows what he’s looking for in a college.

“I’m going to be looking at what program can best develop me and get me ready for the next level. But I will also look closely at what situation is best for me and my family, especially my mom.

“I want to play at a high tempo, a lot of pace, and I want to get up and down the floor quickly.”

Scouting Report

“Tyler McKinley is a strong-framed power forward. He is not afraid to mix it up and has an understanding of what his game is. At 6-foot-9, McKinley has soft hands and is an active rebounder. While he is a below-the-rim defender, he understands angles and has good footwork and a motor. McKinley finishes well around the basket and knocks down his free throws. He plays with a lot of energy and does not shy away from contact. There is a throwback nature to his game, and while he is still developing the range on his jump shot, there are a lot of tools to carry into the highest level of the college game.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw