"Fuel, Fire, and Ferocity: Built to Dominate the Game and the Moment"

Ta’Juan Can

@cann_tajuan

IG: @the.onlytman

6’1, 175lbs, Class of 2028

University Academy Charter School, MO

Ta’Juan is a fierce, fast-paced floor general who brings toughness, talk, and tenacity to every inch of the court. His game is explosive, attacking the lane, strong enough to power through defenders, fast enough to beat them off the bounce, and vocal enough to set the tone for his entire team. He thrives in chaos, turning rebounds into offense, pressure into points, and energy into momentum. Physicality is his signature, and he wears that edge-like armor. Whether he's crashing the glass, diving for a loose ball, or throwing down a highlight dunk, Ta’Juan plays with emotion and a motor that never lets up. His communication on defense is elite for his age, and he brings a leadership presence that can't be taught, that DOGG mentality is built from a fire deep within.

This past season, he averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, but his biggest improvements came on the defensive side and in his ability to move the ball and make his teammates better. This offseason, he’s locked in on elevating his shooting, getting a more consistent middy and beyond the arc, and increasing his vertical bounce to elevate above the rim even more. He already made waves this year with momentum-swinging dunks and earned the full trust of his coaches. That belief fuels him, and he’s bringing that same fire into summer ball with Team One of Us on the Adidas 3SGB circuit. His goals are clear: get noticed, get recruited, and keep climbing. The KC Classic and Recruit Looks are circled on his calendar, along with any second or third session on the Adidas stage.

Next season, his goals are higher than ever. His eyes are on the district title, Player of the Year honors, and making sure University Academy makes noise at the state level. What fuels his fire is trash talk, pregame music, and even the meal before tip-off. Once the game starts, he’s fueled by competition and locked in on proving he’s that guy. When facing adversity, he leans on prayer and composure, pausing, breathing, and getting back to business. The best advice he’s ever gotten is, “Stop aiming and just shoot.” That freedom in his game has unlocked even more confidence.

Off the court, Ta’Juan is laid back, enjoying movies, good food, and time with friends, but once he steps onthefloor, it’s all work, all focus, all energy.

I assess that Ta’Juan’s physical style, vocal leadership, and fearless drive make him a plug-and-play weapon for programs seeking toughness and tempo. With growing efficiency and consistent confidence, he can be a tone-setting guard who changes games with hustle and heart.

Expect Ta’Juan to keep rising fast. With improved shooting and added bounce, he’s on pace to become a true two-way threat. He’s hungry, grounded in faith, and wired to compete. He has everything you want in a young leader, ready to lead a program and leave a mark. Stay tuned for a breakout season ahead.