Jan. 19 was a special day for the area as Lima native Tyler Ulis played his first NBA game in the state he grew up in as a member of the Phoenix Suns.
My daughter and I had the pleasure of attending the Suns game against Cleveland game. Although Tyler’s minutes were limited, and he only scored two points, and they lost to world champs, it was a major victory for Lima.
Tyler always dreamed of playing in the NBA, and for me, this experience came full circle, as it represented the culmination of commitment, sacrifice, hard work and perseverance. From 2001-11, I served as recreation supervisor for the City of Lima. It was there that I was first introduced to young Tyler, and was immediately impressed by with athletic skills and level of maturity. As a third-grader, we could tell that there was something special about this kid, as he possessed a unique set of qualities, especially for someone his age. Tyler was humble, talented, coachable, an honor student who excelled in basketball, football and an All-American track athlete. Although he was a “kid,” he seemed to understand time and place, actions and consequences, respect for others and the responsibility to represent himself, his family and his community. We really enjoyed watching Tyler grow, and develop his athletic and interpersonal skills. Another highlight of my job was organizing trips to NBA and NFL games. This provided the opportunity to expose area youth to the reality of the NBA experience, and to plant seeds to inspire attitudes and behaviors needed to position one’s self for the possibility of a professional basketball career. Tyler attended several of the NBA games, and often remarked that he would someday play in the NBA.
Tyler attended high school in Chicago, and it was no surprise (to us) that he would excel and eventually play at a major university. And indeed he did, starring at guard for the University of Kentucky, collecting experiences and accolades that few college athletes get the opportunity to enjoy. After his sophomore year at Kentucky, Tyler entered the 2016 NBA Draft, and was selected 34th overall by the Suns.
When asked about his experience in the NBA, Tyler shared that it is a lot faster and more intense. “It’s a dream come true. However, it’s tough. We’ve played eight games in 12 days. The level of competition is greater, so I have to study players, teams and tendencies. A lot of time is spent on preparation.” He went on to say that basketball at this level is much more than a game. “It’s a business, the means by which families are supported. There’s a higher level of competition, and everyone is fighting for their place.” What impressed me the most is Tyler’s appreciation of this platform, and the opportunity he has to inspire and encourage others, especially youth.
I also had the privilege of speaking with Suns Head Coach Earl Watson. When asked about his thoughts regarding Tyler’s development, he shared that Tyler has earned his respect, the respect of the team and that of the entire Suns organization. He went on to say, “We love Ty! He’s a part of our young core, and he’s going to be very important for our future. He’s learning every game, and he does things that I haven’t seen any point guard do (as a rookie).” Watson also expressed his thoughts that Tyler has all of the tools to be a successful head coach in the NBA. “He sits next to the coaches and he’s involved in every timeout, vocally. He’s ahead of his time, and we’re excited about his future.”
When asked what Tyler would say to all who aspire to play professional basketball, Tyler encouraged academics as the foundation, as there’s a lot of studying and other mental things that take place behind the scenes, which are equally, and sometimes more important than one’s physical ability. He also stressed the importance of decision-making. “You can’t go everywhere, do everything and hang out with everyone.” In other words, if you are serious about playing ball, or anything else, you’ve got to make good decisions.
It did my heart good to see and speak with Tyler.
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