"Silky Stride, Cold Finish: The Calm Craft of a Bucket Getter"

Taijh Riley Jr

@Taijh_Riley

IG- @die4agreatchaos

6’2 1/2, 140lbs, Class of 2026

Sequoia Pathfinder Academy, AZ

Taijh is a smooth operator on the court as a fluid wing with a silky stride, effortless movement, and a scorer’s mentality. His catch-and-shoot stroke is automatic, his punishing middy drips with control, and he knows how to glide off the glass or finish at the rim with finesse. Off the ball, he runs the lanes like clockwork, always finding the sweet spots to either score or make the right read. His game is built on rhythm and IQ, but he’s hungry to develop, working this summer on becoming a better playmaker and adding more consistency to his jumper. He doesn’t force anything; he plays in flow, with poise, timing, and a quiet confidence that commands attention.

This past season, Taijh averaged 16.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, leading his team all the way to a championship. The biggest improvement in his game came in his left hand, allowing him to handle, finish, and create more freely. Now, he’s locked in on elevating his playmaking craft and building an even deeper bag. This AAU season, he’ll play with the JETS, with a goal to show out and bring his full arsenal to high-level tournaments like MADEHOOPS. What fuels him before every game is his preparation, the work he puts in behind the scenes, visualizing greatness, and locking in. He doesn’t flinch under pressure, blocks out the noise, and plays with a calm, composed energy that lifts those around him. Off the court, he enjoys being surrounded by family, friends, and music, yet never strays too far from the grind.

I assess that Taijh’s game translates beautifully to the next level. His ability to play within the system while still getting buckets in rhythm makes him a plug-and-play scorer for any college program. His shot mechanics, natural feel, and versatility at the 2 or 3 position will give coaches a reliable weapon who doesn’t need to dominate the ball to make an impact.

Expect Taijh's ceiling to only rise as his body fills out and his playmaking expands. With his current scoring ability and desire to add more to his game, he’s just scratching the surface. If he keeps applying pressure like this, his evolution stretches far beyond just being a shooter and builds toward becoming a complete, dynamic threat. Stay tuned.