Cade Tyson’s journey has been anything but traditional.
The Monroe, North Carolina native began his career at Belmont University. As a Bruin, Tyson was named the MVC Freshman of the Year.
In his sophomore season, he elevated his play even more. The guard was averaging 16.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. Tyson shot a very efficient 46.5% from three-point range, which was second best in the NCAA.
Following two successful seasons at the mid-major level, Tyson looked to make a jump to the Power Four level. That’s when he landed back in his home state with the Tar Heels.
At North Carolina, things weren’t easy and Tyson struggled. He averaged a career-low 2.6 points and played roughly eight minutes a game.
Many questioned whether or not the former Belmont standout would be suited for the highest level of competition, so after one year in the ACC, Tyson packed his bags and hit the transfer portal once again.
That’s when Minnesota came calling, and he answered.
“I felt like it was the best fit for me basketball wise,” Tyson said. “It’s a good opportunity for this program to turn some heads.”
Niko Medved, who is in his first season leading the Golden Gophers, saw something in him. He knew that Tyson needed another chance and a place to thrive.
It was the perfect storm.
“We always talk about fit matters,” Medved said. “For whatever reason, it didn’t work out for him. If you remember a couple of years ago, he was one of the top transfers in the transfer portal. North Carolina has a great program. It just wasn’t working out fit-wise. We thought he would be a great fit here. I think you are seeing that.”
It’s about fit. Both Tyson and Medved said it, and it’s the truth.
Playing in this Minnesota offense is allowing the senior to thrive. He’s become one of the top scorers in the country and is playing more than ever.
Tyson is averaging 21.8 points per game, which is fifth best in the NCAA. He’s adding 4.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists, as well. In the Golden Gophers most recent contest at Purdue, he played all but one minute and recorded 15 points, four assists and four rebounds.
He’s feeling “confident out there.” Now, all he wants is to win.
“I want to win something,” Tyson said. “A championship of some sort. I’d love to make it back to March Madness. That’s always the goal.”
The journey was not always easy. The road to Minnesota never had a cleat path, but Tyson has made it, and he’s thriving.
The Golden Gopher is showing that the name on the front of the jersey doesn’t always matter. It’s about fit. Tyson is doing more than just fitting in. He’s playing the best basketball of his career on a big stage.
