Fifteen Questions for B.J. Tyson

By W.A. Myatt
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Bunyon Devell (B.J.) Tyson, Jr., is off to a good start in East Carolina's basketball program. Two games into the 2014-15 season, the 6' 3" freshman is averaging 17.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and leads the Pirates in steals with seven. He is playing 23.5 minutes per game. Tyson has hit nine of his 10 free throws (90 percent) and 12 of 22 field goal attempts (54.5 percent), although he has made just one of seven behind the arc.

Tyson averaged 26.0 points as a senior at Anson County High School in 2012-13 and was named to the NCPreps.com 3-A All-State team. His AAU team was the Carolina Hawks. Tyson also played football in high school. He passed for 825 yards and seven touchdowns as a quarterback and scored seven TDs as a wide receiver.

Tyson plans to major in recreation and leisure studies. He answered questions for Bonesville before practice on Tuesday.

Q: Favorite restaurant in Greenville?

A: Chipotle.

Q: Favorite video game?

A: 'NBA 2k15'

Q: Why did you choose to wear No. 21?

A: I grew up wearing this number — it's been my favorite number since high school and since I was little.

Q: What factors led to your decision to attend East Carolina?

A: They brought me in as a family and I like the style of play here.

Q: What part of your game do you feel needs the most work?

A: My three-point shooting and my defense.

Q: How exciting was it for you to play in Minges for the first time?

A: It was very exciting, just the feel of it. I came out last year and sat in the stands. I wasn't able to be out on the court. It feels great to be here playing with these guys now, playing with my brothers.

Q: What is your greatest basketball memory?

A: When I was in high school, on my Senior Night, we were on a fast break and I caught the ball around half court, drove and went up and dunked on this guy. I think I ended the game with a triple-double.

Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?

A: I listen to my music. Before we go out and shoot, I pray and I also read my Bible.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A: I like to dance a lot. I enjoy being around my teammates and I also just like to relax.

Q: What are your thoughts on the new jerseys and warm-ups?

A: It's really nice!

Q: Who's been the most influential person in your life?

A: My mom and my dad, my coaches and my teammates.

Q: How would you describe Jeff Lebo's coaching style?

A: Very aggressive. He wants us to come out and play tough — he always harps on that. That's the main thing I try to come out and do, play tough and show leadership.

Q: Who's the best player you've ever played against?

A: Right now, it's Paris (Roberts)-Campbell. I haven't really played against anyone else that has his heart and his competitiveness, yet.

Q: You're part of a team that's pretty deep at the guard position. How much does that help you improve in practice?

A: It helps me a lot, because if I make a mistake, the first person that comes up and talks to me — even if it's small details — is Paris. Caleb (White) talks to me a lot, too, as well as Antonio Robinson.

Q: What's your favorite thing about East Carolina?

A: Basketball, the fans and the team.

E-mail W.A. Myatt.

PAGE UPDATED 11/19/14 02:47 AM