"Certified Shooter, Quiet Killer: Making His Name from Deep and Beyond"

Riston Taylor

@RistonTaylor32

IG: @riston.taylor

6’4, 170lbs, Class of 2026

Troy Christian HS, OH

Riston is a high-level shot-maker with poise, confidence, and purpose every time he steps on the court. He’s a smooth and skilled all-around guard who mix of fierce scoring instincts with vision and court awareness. He can bring the rain from deep, attack the rim with speed, and create open looks for others with jaw-dropping passes that show off his high IQ. He’s also a strong rebounder at his position, using effort and anticipation to track down boards on both ends. Whether he’s running the offense or playing off the ball, Riston plays with control, maturity, and a team-first mindset. What separates him is his ability to read the floor, play under control, and make everyone around him better while still being a serious scoring threat himself.

Riston’s junior season was a statement. He averaged 14.0 points per game, shooting a blistering 46.9% from three and 79.6% from the line, along with 5.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and nearly a steal per game. He’s not just a shooter, he’s a steady impact across the board. His biggest improvement this year came on the defensive end and in his ability to create more chances for his team. Now, his focus is on tightening up his left hand, improving his lateral quickness, and becoming the go-to defender against any top scorer. His goal is to guard the best player on the floor every night while continuing to stretch the defense with deeper range.

This AAU season, Riston is playing for Midwest Basketball Club under Crh Hicks and has his eyes set on Bleacher Republic Nationals in Hamilton, OH. He’s excited for the opportunity to play in front of college coaches and show why he’s more than ready to help a program at the next level. That belief comes from how he carries himself: humble, motivated, and grounded. Last year’s most impactful moment wasn’t a personal stat, it was the early bond he built with the seniors that elevated team chemistry. That connection made the season special, and he’s fired up to run it back with nearly the entire group returning.

Riston thrives in high-energy gyms where the atmosphere is loud, and the pressure is real. When facing adversity, he stays cool, locked in, and focused on his game. His calmness helps set the tone when things get tough, and it shows in his ability to finish plays and make sound decisions. The best advice he’s received came from a former college coach and player who helped him recognize what truly stood out in his game and what still needed to be built on. That honest feedback has shaped his approach and kept him hungry.

Off the court, Riston enjoys playing pickleball in his free time and finds joy in keeping his relationship with God first. His faith fuels his work ethic and reminds him why he plays the game the way he does, with purpose, gratitude, and drive.

I assess that Riston is a scorer with college-level range, a high basketball IQ, and a mature approach to development. His combination of shooting efficiency, unselfish play, rebounding effort, and defensive commitment makes him a valuable piece for any program looking for someone who can produce on both ends. He checks every box of a two-way guard who shows up ready to work and does it without needing the spotlight.

As Riston continues to build strength, quickness, and expand his leadership role, his stock will only rise. With proven production, strong habits, and a team-first mentality, he’s poised for a breakout senior year. Coaches should take serious notice, he’s got the game, mindset, and faith to make some serious noise, this coming seasonand beyond. Expect him to showcase the new weapon in his arsenal more this coming season, the ability to flex his bounce and play more above the rim with few flashy throw- downs. Stay tuned.