Catching up with Sammamish great JD Taylor

Played at Juanita High School 1984.

Played college ball for University of Washington 1984-1987 and Western Washington University 1990.

Seattle Pro-Am 1991-1996.

My high school coach Bob Anderson had a huge impact on me both on and off the court. Coach taught me how to work hard and get along with people. He taught the value of discipline in all things both on and off the court. Leadership, accountability and never giving up. Most of all Coach raised me to be a student of the game and educator of doing the right things the right way. Anyone can play, but can you play the right way.

As a result of my Coaches impact and how he raised me I follow the path I do today. I am currently owner/operator of Elite Hoop Effects Basketball Academy and our focus is kids. Basketball is the platform but the kids and their development is our focus. Through basketball and skill development EHE empowers and raises confidence in our kids. Through our program kids grow outside of the gym as much as in the gym.

If I had to choose from all of the great players of the 1980's I would say that Quinn Snyder was the best player I've played against in Washington State but on the national level I would say my friend Danny Manning was TOPS I've played against.

My advice to today's high school players is to continue to work hard, push your level, enhance your body skills and knowledge of the game. Play/train against older players to understand the level you are headed towards so your training level can be raised.

I like the exposure and opportunities that AAU creates for players. Some high school players are discovered at tournaments and showcase tournaments give every player a chance for a coach to see them even though their school team may not have played them much or enough to generate stats but great role team players are able to draw the attention of a coach during AAU events.

My favorite gym (besides our homecourt) and rivalry go to the same school, hands down our biggest rivalry was Mercer Island and their gym. Always sold out, tightly packed and full of energy.