University School 2022 Taylor Hendricks talks first offer & travel ball

<p><em>(Photo courtesy Taylor Hendricks)</em></p> <p><strong>Taylor Hendricks</strong> was on a three-way call Tuesday that blew his mind.</p> <p>The Davie University School rising sophomore landed his first college scholarship offer from the University of Miami.</p> <p>Hendricks said he learned of the news in a three-way call with Canes head coach <strong>Jim Larranaga</strong> and an assistant coach.</p> <p>"I was at a loss for words," Hendricks said. "I just couldn't believe it. When I was younger, I dreamed about playing college basketball."</p> <p>The 6-foot-8 Hendricks was a reserve center as a freshman on a University School squad that went 27-5, won its second consecutive Class 5A state championship and qualified for GEICO Nationals for the second season in a row.</p> <p>He helped back up a deep interior core that included two-time Florida Mr. Basketball and Duke 6-10 signee <strong>Vernon Carey Jr.</strong>; 6-8 <strong>Scottie Barnes</strong>; 6-6 <strong>Jace Howard</strong>; and 6-8 <strong>Jalil Beaubrun</strong>.</p> <p>Hendricks averaged 5 points and 3.4 rebounds a game. He scored the game-winning hoop in a key victory over Westminster Christian.</p> <p>"Pretty high offer ... ACC," said former University School coach <strong>Jim Carr,</strong> who coached Hendricks in 2018-19. "Taylor was a kid that got better and better. He is a tremendous competitor. He just had to get stronger. I could see him growing to be 6-11, 7-foot.</p> <p>"I think it's great by the University of Miami -- Coach Larranaga, Coach <strong>[Chris] Caputo</strong>, <strong>Bill Courtney </strong>-- identifying a very good young player and jumping in his recruitment."</p> <p>Hendricks played travel basketball this spring and summer with SoFlo Hoops. He is long, athletic and has a nice touch.</p> <p>"I definitely improved my shooting overall and my ball-handling," Hendricks said. </p> <p>Asked what Miami's coaches like about his game, Hendricks said: "They like my motor, how I hustle, my shot-blocking and defense."</p> <p>Taylor has a brother, <strong>Tyler Hendricks</strong>, that is also on the University School squad. Tyler is a 6-1 2022 guard.</p> <p>Photo credit: Jake Perper</p> <p><em>If you have high school or travel basketball news, you can reach Pat Lammer via Twitter at @PLamRecruiting or through e-mail at PatALammer@Gmail.com</em></p>