Basketball Star Tyon Grant-Foster Overcomes Adversity to Shine at Grand Canyon University
PHOENIX (AP) — The darkest path often presents as the easiest one, a facade funneling into a trap.
Tyon Grant-Foster saw the lurking danger behind the illusion but refused to detour no matter what life threw in his way.
As a child surrounded by a world of gangs, drugs, and crime, he chose the light of a basketball court. When two near-death experiences threatened to take away the game he loved most, Grant-Foster leaned into his faith, the winding path landing him in a starring role at Grand Canyon University.
Grant-Foster’s impact has been massive in his short time at Grand Canyon.
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Impressive Performance
The 6-foot-7 senior guard’s 20.9 points per game rank 13th nationally, and he’s second on the team with 6.0 rebounds. Grant-Foster has led the Antelopes to their first win over a ranked opponent and their best start in 28 years.
“He’s a very gifted basketball player and has raised the level of our team, given us an elite scoring option,” said Grand Canyon coach Bryce Drew. “The thing that we have really enjoyed is just his appreciation for the game and just the joy he brings in life in general.”
From the Streets to the Basketball Court
Grant-Foster grew up in Kansas City, Kansas, amidst a world of gangs and crime. However, he chose basketball as his path and excelled throughout high school and junior college.
Blueblood Kansas and Hall of Fame coach Bill Self recruited Grant-Foster, but he ended up playing a limited role and decided to seek a new opportunity.
A Life-Altering Setback
Grant-Foster’s journey took a terrifying turn when he collapsed during a game at DePaul and had to be resuscitated multiple times. He spent 10 days in the hospital with no clear diagnosis.
Despite the setback, Grant-Foster remained positive and looked for alternative paths in basketball, even considering working as a referee or a graduate assistant.
Perseverance and Redemption
After 16 months, Grant-Foster received clearance from his doctor to play again. However, most schools were hesitant to sign him due to his previous heart condition.
Fortunately, Grand Canyon University showed interest and offered Grant-Foster a perfect landing spot. The program’s rise, coupled with a supportive Christian environment and a coach who understood perseverance, made it an ideal choice.
A Triumphant Return
Grant-Foster made his comeback with Grand Canyon University, delivering an exceptional performance with 30 points in his first game after a two-year hiatus.
Through his unwavering determination and faith, Grant-Foster overcame immense challenges and found the light at the end of a difficult journey.
This article was originally published by The Associated Press.