Jaylon Tyson is one of the most promising young players in the NBA today. After a standout college career and an impressive journey through adversity, Tyson has quickly made a name for himself with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Fans are eager to know more about his background, professional journey, personal life, and financial details as he continues to grow in the league.
Jaylon Tyson’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaylon La Rone Tyson |
| Date of Birth | December 2, 2002 |
| Age | 22 |
| Education | John Paul II High School, Texas; University of Texas; Texas Tech University; University of California |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) |
| Weight | 215 lbs (98 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2024 |
| Net Worth | $3.3 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $3,326,160 (2024-25 season) |
| Wife/Husband | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | @JT20 |
| Twitter Profile | @jaylontyson |
Early Career
Jaylon Tyson’s early basketball journey is a story of steady growth, resilience, and standout performances that set the stage for his later success. Born on December 2, 2002, in Allen, Texas, Tyson grew up in Plano and attended John Paul II High School, where he quickly emerged as one of the top high school players in the state. His athletic talent was clear from the start, but it was his work ethic and leadership that truly distinguished him during these formative years.
In his junior season at John Paul II, Tyson led his team to its first-ever TAPPS Class 6A state championship. He was the driving force behind the team’s impressive 40-1 record, averaging 23.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his knack for rebounding and facilitating, made him a matchup nightmare for opponents.
Tyson’s efforts did not go unnoticed, as he earned first-team TAPPS all-state honors and was named the district’s Most Valuable Player. These accolades reflected his dominance and consistency throughout the season, as well as his importance to the team’s historic run.
Tyson’s senior year was equally impressive. He guided John Paul II to the state semifinals, finishing the season with a remarkable 26-2 record. His well-rounded game was on full display, as he averaged 22.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per contest. Once again, he was named the district MVP and a first-team all-state selection.
His leadership on and off the court helped elevate the program’s reputation, and he became a role model for younger players in the community. Tyson’s performances drew national attention, earning him a ranking as the 34th-best recruit in the 2021 class by Rivals, and he was similarly ranked by other top recruiting services.
Professional Career
Jaylon Tyson’s professional career began with a significant milestone in June 2024 when he was selected as the 20th overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. This selection capped off a remarkable college career that saw him excel at Texas, Texas Tech, and California, where he was recognized as one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the country.
Tyson’s draft night was a proud moment for both him and his family, as he became the 11th player in California Golden Bears history to be picked in the first round and the first since Jaylen Brown in 2016. The Cavaliers saw in Tyson a hard worker with a high basketball IQ and the potential to develop into a valuable asset for their roster.
Shortly after the draft, Tyson signed a four-year rookie contract with the Cavaliers, securing his place in the NBA and beginning his journey as a professional athlete. The transition from college to the NBA was both challenging and exciting.
Tyson made his NBA debut on October 23, 2024, against the Toronto Raptors. He entered the game late in the fourth quarter and, despite a couple of early turnovers and a missed free throw, quickly found his rhythm.
He scored his first NBA point from the free-throw line and followed it up with a successful three-pointer, finishing his debut with four points, two rebounds, and one assist in under seven minutes of play. His debut showcased his ability to contribute in multiple areas, even in limited minutes.
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Throughout his rookie season, Tyson’s role with the Cavaliers was primarily that of a rotational player. He appeared in 47 games, averaging 3.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 9.6 minutes per game. While his playing time was limited, Tyson demonstrated flashes of the versatility and scoring touch that made him a first-round pick.
He shot 43% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range, showing promise as a perimeter threat and a capable defender on the wing. Tyson’s adaptability allowed him to play both shooting guard and small forward, providing the Cavaliers with flexibility in their lineups.
Jaylon Tyson’s Net Worth Details
Jaylon Tyson’s net worth is estimated to be $3.3 million as of 2025.
Contract
Jaylon Tyson signed a standard four-year rookie contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers after being selected as the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. His deal is worth a total of $16,118,700, with $6,818,640 guaranteed and an average annual salary of approximately $4,029,675.
The contract includes team options for the third and fourth years, giving the Cavaliers flexibility as Tyson develops. For the 2024–25 season, he will earn a base salary of $3,326,160, which increases each year if the team exercises their options, reflecting the NBA’s structured rookie pay scale for first-round picks. This contract provides Tyson with both financial security and a clear path for growth within the organization.
Salary
For the 2024–25 NBA season, Jaylon Tyson will earn a base salary of $3,326,160 as part of his rookie contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His salary is set to increase each year according to the NBA’s rookie scale, with $3,492,480 for the 2025–26 season, $3,658,560 for 2026–27 (if the team exercises its option), and $5,641,500 for 2027–28 (also a team option).
These escalating figures reflect the league’s commitment to rewarding first-round draft picks as they gain experience and prove their value on the court. Tyson’s salary structure ensures he is well-compensated as he develops and contributes to the Cavaliers’ success.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Cash Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $3,326,160 |
| 2025–26 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $3,492,480 |
| 2026–27 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $3,658,560 |
| 2027–28 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $5,641,500 |
| Total | $16,118,700 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | Cleveland Cavaliers | 47 | 3 | 9.6 | 3.6 | 2.0 | 0.9 | 0.3 | 0.1 | .430 | .345 | .792 |
| Career | 47 | 3 | 9.6 | 3.6 | 2.0 | 0.9 | 0.3 | 0.1 | .430 | .345 | .792 |
FAQs
1. Who is Jaylon Tyson?
Jaylon Tyson is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. He was born on December 2, 2002, in Allen, Texas, and is known for playing as a small forward and shooting guard.
2. Where did Jaylon Tyson play college basketball?
Jaylon Tyson played college basketball at three schools: Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, and California Golden Bears. He had a standout season at California, earning All-PAC-12 First-Team honors.
3. What was Jaylon Tyson’s draft position and which team selected him?
Jaylon Tyson was selected in the first round as the 20th overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2024 NBA Draft. He officially joined the Cavaliers in July 2024.
4. What are Jaylon Tyson’s physical attributes?
Jaylon Tyson is 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters) tall and weighs 215 pounds (98 kilograms). He primarily plays as a small forward or shooting guard.
5. What notable achievements did Jaylon Tyson have in college?
During his junior season at California, Jaylon Tyson averaged 19.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He was named to the 2023-24 All-PAC-12 First-Team and was a top 10 finalist for the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award.
6. What was Jaylon Tyson’s high school basketball career like?
Jaylon Tyson attended John Paul II High School in Plano, Texas. He led his team to their first state championship as a junior, averaging 23.3 points per game, and was named district MVP and first-team all-state as a senior.
7. Why did Jaylon Tyson transfer colleges more than once?
Jaylon Tyson initially transferred from Texas to Texas Tech due to limited playing time. After his sophomore season at Texas Tech, he transferred to California, citing “racist” comments made by Texas Tech’s head coach Mark Adams as a reason for leaving.
8. How has Jaylon Tyson performed in his NBA rookie season?
In his rookie season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jaylon Tyson has appeared in 39 games, averaging 3.1 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game. He has also spent time assigned to the Cleveland Charge in the NBA G League.
9. What is Jaylon Tyson’s playing style and strengths?
Jaylon Tyson is recognized for his ability to create his own shot and score from various spots on the court. He is a reliable spot-up shooter, a willing passer, and has the size to defend opposing wings effectively.
10. Does Jaylon Tyson have any family members who are athletes?
Yes, Jaylon Tyson’s brother Jordyn Tyson plays football at Colorado, and another brother, Berron Tyson, played football at South Alabama. The Tyson family has a strong athletic background.
