Kent Crusaders and Canterbury Academy’s Tyrese Walters-Lawrence and Daniel Beard have both signed scholarships to America for the 2018-19 season.
Tyrese, who has committed to Bryant & Stratton College, is a 5’11 highly skilled shooting guard. He joined Canterbury for year 13 and stayed on for year 14 after originally coming from Haringey Sixth Form.
“Coming to Canterbury was one of the hardest decisions I had to make as it meant leaving my family and friends in London and coming out of my comfort zone.” Tyrese said. He then commented on the program here at Canterbury saying, “Even though it was a tough decision I do not regret it one bit. The programme here is definitely one of the best in the country, from staff to facilities. The setup is just like being involved in a pro team environment, proving you with everything you need to succeed in basketball and in life. Canterbury did not just help me become a ranked guard in the country but also taught me how to be a role model, leader and the man I am today.”
Coach Jesse Sazant is extremely proud of Tyrese and how far he has come saying, “Tyrese has been incredibly committed to the programme for his two years and has grown so much. He will make a real impact at Bryant & Stratton with his competitiveness and desire.”
Coach Matt Majkrzak from Bryant and Stratton had this to say about his incoming guard, “I’m thrilled to have Tyrese join our school and basketball program. Basketball wise he’s exactly what we look for in a guard where he can space the floor with shooting and attack the basket with aggression. Equally important throughout getting to know Tyrese, his coaches, and his mom, Khadisha, it became apparent he’s a tremendous all around student athlete from a great family. Our program wants guys that are great people off the floor, and tenacious and tough competitors on the floor. Tyrese fits that mould perfectly.”
Tyrese is also trilled about joining the Bobcats. “Going to the States to play basketball and further my education has been a dream of mine since I was 13. Missing this season due to injuries has really put a chip on my shoulder and I’m determined to showcase my abilities and take my new team as far as I can.”
Daniel Beard has committed to Barstow Community College in California. The 6’7 athletic wing only joined Canterbury Academy for year 14 after playing at BHASVIC last season.
“Being a late bloomer in basketball and starting aged 15 meant I have had to learn things at a rapid rate. Coming from BHASVIC to Canterbury was the best decision I have ever made. I have seen tremendous growth as both a player and as a person and full credit needs to go to the staff for that.” Daniel said. He then commented on playing in the States next season saying, “It was my dream to play basketball in the States after my first competitive season of local league. I look forward to playing in one of the top JUCO leagues in the nation alongside some great players and coach in Greg Wright. Barstow seems a good fit and hopefully somewhere I can propel my game to the next level.”
Coach Jesse expressed his desire to have had Daniel saying, “While he has only been here for 1 year, Dan has improved so much and been a joy to work with. He now knows what he needs to do to continue to develop and fulfil his potential and I am sure he will continue to make huge strides at Barstow.”
