By: Elijah Bradley, Staff Writer

Cedrick Taylor III, a sophomore guard for the Morehouse College basketball team, continues to make history in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Taylor was recently honored with the prestigious SIAC Elite 16 Award, the conference’s highest academic honor. This award is given to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average in each of the SIAC’s 16 championship sports, highlighting Taylor’s excellence in both academics and athletics. His ability to balance rigorous coursework with high-level basketball sets him apart as a true leader for the Maroon Tigers.

Reflecting on his sophomore year, Taylor acknowledged the challenges and growth he experienced.

“I had a pretty good second year,” Taylor said in interview with the Maroon Tiger. “Obviously, the team didn’t get as far as we wanted, but I just made myself stay focused on and off the court. I wanted to make sure I had a great season while handling my business academically.”

Taylor has been a key contributor to Morehouse’s success this season. Playing in all 30 games and starting in 27, he logged 978 total minutes, averaging 32.6 minutes per game. His consistency and high-level performance helped him tally 467 points, making him the team’s leading scorer. Defensively, he recorded 47 steals and was also the team leader in rebounds, steals, and blocks, while ranking second in assists.

He has earned several accolades this season, including a spot on the SIAC First Team and the title of SIAC Player of the Week on February 11th. These honors further solidify his status as one of the most dominant players in the conference. Taylor credits his discipline and organization for his ability to manage both. 

“I try to stay as organized as possible,” Taylor explained. “I keep a little calendar to make sure everything’s in order, and I always try to apply myself in class. A lot of people struggle because they don’t want to go to class. At the end of the day, we’re here to get that Morehouse degree.”

Taylor’s commitment to academics has not gone unnoticed. In addition to winning the SIAC Elite 16 Award, he has continued to demonstrate the same discipline that helped him earn SIAC Freshman of the Year last season. His ability to balance the demands of being a student-athlete showcases his relentless work ethic and dedication to success.

Taylor understands that success comes with teamwork and consistency, and he remains focused on helping his team reach new heights.

Despite all his personal success, Taylor remains humble and grateful for those who have supported him. 

“First and foremost, I’ve got to give credit to God—I wouldn’t be here without Him,” Taylor said. “My family has also played a huge role. They come out to pretty much all my games and keep me grounded. Anything I need to talk about, I go straight to them. Their support means everything.”

With his strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to excellence, Cedrick Taylor III is setting an inspiring example for future student-athletes. His ability to thrive in both academics and athletics makes him a standout in the SIAC.

Copy Edited by: Rece Allen, Sports Editor