Amid a chaotic season, Tyson Etienne put forth his best display of basketball after turning in a strong sophomore campaign with Wichita State.
The Shockers dealt with a head coaching change while navigating through difficult circumstances surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Several games were canceled or postponed, making for plenty of uncertainty throughout the year.
Still, Etienne and the Shockers experienced great success on the court.
Etienne was named the American Athletic Conference Co-Player of the Year after averaging 16.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and one steal in 22 games. He shot a staggering 39.2% from 3-point range on 7.5 attempts, ranking 18th in the nation in 3s per game (2.95).
Behind the play of Etienne, and the guidance of first-year head coach Isaac Brown, the Shockers earned an at-large bid in the NCAA Tournament. While they lost to Drake in the First Four, the Shockers had an incredible run after they were projected to finish seventh in their conference.
🔥 @TheTyEtienne1 tore it up this year. #watchus
He was named Co-Player of the Year, becoming the fifth Shocker to ever win a conference Player of the Year award.
🔗: https://t.co/DG5U3XH90W pic.twitter.com/wC9K1kB3Cj
— Wichita State Men's Basketball (@GoShockersMBB) March 10, 2021
Now, Etienne is looking to go on a run of his own in the pre-draft process.
On April 18, Etienne announced he would enter the NBA draft while maintaining his collegiate eligibility. He has already worked out privately with the Cleveland Cavaliers and has workouts set up with the Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns among others.
Etienne recently sat down with Rookie Wire to discuss the pre-draft process, his experience last season with the Shockers, what he wants to show teams and much more.
Please note this interview was minorly edited in its transcript for clarity