Presents…
The Player Behind The Game Spotlight: Taylor Olson
The Michigan Finest organization struck gold when they added Taylor Olson to their line-up. The 5’9” guard always let her presence on the court be known. She hustled on both ends of the court and never giving up on a play until she heard a whistle or saw a made basket. Taylor is very fundamentally sound which went hand in hand with her great decision making in tough situations. She can also shoot with the best of them, hitting shots from all over the court and with a hand in her face. Taylor’s hard work and dedication to her game shows whenever she steps on the court and that has earned her the “LBI Player Behind The Game Spotlight”.
Current High School: Dexter High School
What college/university have you committed to?: Ferris State University
What will you major in?: Sociology w/ a pre-law concentration
Why did you choose this school?: Primarily because of the coach. I get along with her well and I like her style of coaching. The distance from home was also a factor. I really like the idea of my family being able to see me play. The school is far enough that I’m on my own but semi close to home. I really like the campus.
What other offers did you receive?: Valparaiso University and Lake Superior State University
What are some of your other hobbies or talents?: I really enjoy boxing and running. I am currently training for a half marathon.
What will you miss most about high school and high school basketball?: My friends from high school and my team from high school. I grew up with those girls and they are pretty much my best friends. My best friend plays with me and I’ll miss being with her and that “family” of a team. I also got close with my coaches, so I’ll miss them as well. I consider out assistant coach to be like a second mom.
What advice would you like to give to younger players about basketball and selecting a college/university?: Pick a school that you love. Don’t pick a school because of the size or level. Pick a school that you feel you really fit and would love to attend for four years. Also, pick a school where you really like the style of play and coach. That part is really important. As far as your game, work on it as much as you can. I wish I worked even harder than I did. When you think you are at your best, you can achieve even more. There is always a possibility to be better and improve your game, so never stop working.
Who would you like to thank for helping you achieve all that you’ve accomplished?: I would like to acknowledge Jibri Taylor. He was my trainer from day one. He has been through everything with me and never left my side. I love that guy and thank him for everything he has done to make me tough and a better basketball player. I look up to him and always will. I would also like to recognize Amy Popielarz- Holleman. When I was young she found me. She told me I had potential to be great. She first introduced me to the idea of college basketball. She was the first one to push me. She was the one that got me started and I couldn't thank her enough for everything she has done and continues to do for me. She taught me so much and I'm glad to follow in her footsteps and play at Ferris. Lastly I want to thank my mom. She is my rock and I wouldn't even have this opportunity without her. She paid for me to go to all the exposure things. She has supported me through it all and spent hours in a gym rebounding for me. I love her and I'm so blessed to have her in my life and through all of this. They were also the ones that helped me get to my dream.
Congrats Taylor on all of your success! The LBI staff wishes you the best of luck in all during this season and as a freshman at Ferris University.
