Bryson Tiller, the promising forward from Atlanta’s Overtime Elite program, made the transition to the University of Kansas in early January, aiming to set himself up for success in the 2025-26 season. However, his journey has faced challenges due to a lingering left ankle injury that ultimately required surgery to fix a bone fracture last March. Despite these setbacks, Tiller remains optimistic and determined to bounce back stronger than ever.
Reflecting on his last competitive performance, Tiller remembered playing for the City Reapers in the OTE Finals where he put up 14 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. It was a game to remember, as he helped secure victory in a tight 71-68 title match. “The last time I played competitive 5-on-5 basketball was March 17, 2024,” he shared, which underlines the length of his hiatus from the court.
It’s been a complicated healing process, but Tiller has been clear about his commitment to rehabilitation. “It’s definitely been a rough patch,” he remarked. Still, he is taking it in stride, focusing on his recovery with a positive mindset. Currently, he is participating in non-contact practices and has been given a target date of July 1 for his full return. “No rush at all. I’m going to be good for the season, going to be good for the summer,” Tiller stated, eager to reunite with his teammates.
A 6-foot-10, 240-pound powerhouse, Tiller arrived in Lawrence as the No. 21 overall prospect, choosing KU over a plethora of programs including Auburn and North Carolina. Coach Bill Self praised him, noting, “He’s a pro. He’s much more of a 4-man that can play center, more so than a center that can play forward.” Tiller’s skill set includes a reliable shooting touch, impressive footwork, and playmaking abilities, all of which will be assets to the Jayhawks.
In his own words, Tiller describes himself as “a versatile defender, versatile offensive player and someone who can do it all.” After a year marked by recovery, he is ready to reassert his dominance on the court. “I mean, being out for this past year basically (15 months), it’s taken away the game I love,” he admitted. “And this year I’m coming for a lot of heads and I’m just going to be super grateful to be out there.”
During the last season of Overtime Elite, Tiller was honored as a member of the second team, averaging 12.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. His playoff performance was even more impressive, posting averages of 15.6 points and 8.1 rebounds while maintaining a 50% shooting rate. This level of performance demonstrates Tiller’s potential impact at KU.
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Tiller is keenly aware of how he fits into Self’s system, known for maximizing the talents of his players. “A lot of what he does for guys at the 3, 4 position will benefit me very well,” he noted. He appreciates the freedom in the system to move and create plays from various spots on the court, which suits his versatile playing style.
Tiller is not just focused on his personal development; he also places a high value on teamwork and winning. “I definitely like to get my teammates involved. The biggest thing I want to do is win every time. I like making people smile, making people happy,” he said, showcasing his team-first mentality.
Having spent part of the 2024-25 academic year at KU, Tiller possesses an understanding of the playbook and a familiarity with the team dynamics, which gives him an advantage as he moves forward. He understands Coach Self’s expectations, describing him as “demanding,” a quality Tiller believes is essential for reaching the next level as a player.
Family support plays a significant role in Tiller’s journey, especially from his father, Tony, a former football cornerback with a rich background in athletics. “When I played I understood what a work ethic really means,” Tony Tiller emphasized. He sees Bryson’s potential and believes in his son’s dedication to the game, which is crucial for success.
As Tiller looks ahead, his sights are firmly set on achieving a national championship with the Jayhawks. “I feel this year we can really do it,” he declared with confidence. His pride in representing a storied basketball program at KU is evident as he prepares to face rivals like Mizzou and K-State head-on.
It’s clear: Bryson Tiller is ready to make his mark at Kansas, and fans are excited to see what this talented player will bring to the court, especially starting on July 1.
