Who Is Jaylon Tyson

While he may have averaged 19.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in his junior season, by the time Jaylon Tyson declared for the 2024 NBA Draft, he had suited up for three different college teams. Whether this hurt or helped his draft stock, the once heavily recruited high school star from Texas found himself selected 20th by the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

Playing just spot minutes in his first season with the Cavs, seeing action in 47 games, Tyson has seen his minutes nearly triple in his second year in the NBA (9.6 to 24.3). Starting five of the team’s first seven games, the 6’6” combo guard/forward is averaging 10.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, while shooting 44% from the three-point line. While the Cavaliers have dealt with several early-season injuries, the leap from deep bench player to a rotation staple has caught the attention of many fans and media.

Buried behind established stars and established role players like Donovan Mitchell, Sam Merrill, De’Andre Hunter, and Max Strus last season, Tyson has taken full advantage of his opportunity. In his last three games, the 22-year-old has had consecutive games of 18+ points and 3+ rebounds. 

Earning the respect and confidence of Mitchell during the off-season helped to boost Tyson’s confidence, receiving a simple text message, “Be ready”. With the opportunity to play over 24 minutes a game, Tyson’s versatility on both ends of the floor has filled the gaps in coach Kenny Atkinson’s lineup during the early part of the 2025-26 schedule. 

As the team slowly returns to health, Tyson will likely return to the bench, but with his increased confidence in his shooting efficiency, defensive intensity, and playmaking abilities, he has all but guaranteed himself a spot in the Cavaliers' rotation on a nightly basis.