Terry Taylor — no, not the ‘Red Rooster’ from the wrestling world. This Terry Taylor has nothing to do with flashy costumes or melodramatic rivalries. He’s a basketball forward who’s just signed a camp deal with the Sacramento Kings. But why should you care? Well, because this kid’s story is the classic underdog tale you didn’t know you needed.
Not the ‘Red Rooster’: Meet the Real Terry Taylor
Despite going undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, Terry Taylor did not let his dream slip away. He hustled, trained, and proved his worth, eventually landing a multiyear contract with the Indiana Pacers by the end of the 2021-22 season. Although his initial performances didn’t put him in the limelight, the chaotic mix of COVID-19, injuries, and trades provided the perfect storm for him to shine. And when the spotlight was on him, he did not disappoint.
Fast forward to 2023: after signing a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls, Taylor became a free agent in April. The Kings’ GM, Monte McNair, who was searching for a versatile wing, saw the potential in this 6’4” player with an impressive 6’11” wingspan. Terry may not tower over opponents, but his wingspan lets him play like a giant, a crucial addition to the team grappling with height disadvantages this season.
The Sacramento Kings have been desperate for players who can add depth, especially with uncertainties surrounding Kevin Huerter’s return. Taylor’s versatility allows him to cover positions from power forward to center. Even if his shooting stats, like his 31.6% from the three-point line, don’t make headlines, his other skills do. He’s not there to make threes; he’s there to hustle, rebound, and fight for every possession.
Born and raised in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Terry Taylor was never about personal glory. A two-time Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Player of the Year, he led his high school team to four straight state tournaments, racking up 1,704 points and 1,130 rebounds in the process. His high school coach, D.G. Sherrill, has no doubts: “Terry will be a 10-12 year vet in the NBA. He’s humble, he’s hungry, and he does whatever it takes to win.” And those qualities are what make him a gem in a league full of prima donnas.
But hold on, there’s another Terry Taylor? Indeed, the basketball player shares his name with a retired pro wrestler, known for his “Red Rooster” gimmick — a character that was as notorious as it was ridiculous. The gimmick, branded as arrogant yet laughably foolish, arguably marred his wrestling career. Yet, unlike the wrestler who struggled with his ‘cocky rooster’ persona, the NBA’s Terry Taylor has embraced his role, working tirelessly to carve his name in the league.
So, what does all this mean for Sacramento? In a league where talent can sometimes be overshadowed by attitude, Terry Taylor offers the Kings a refreshing change. He’s not there for the glory — he’s there to do the dirty work, the kind of work most players shy away from. He’s a perfect fit for a team looking to outsmart, outplay, and outlast the competition.
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