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Manhattan University Athletics

Tyler Wilson coaching in a huddle
Vincent Dusovic

Men's Basketball Luis Herrera

Wilson Bringing Perspective and Experience to Coaching Role

RIVERDALE, N.Y. - A former player and now a coach for men’s basketball at Manhattan College, Tyler Wilson exemplifies what it means to give back to young men.

During his time as a member of Manhattan's team from 2013-2017, Wilson played a crucial role in helping the team win 67 games, including seven wins during tournament play and a pair of MAAC Championships.

After graduating, Wilson took on coaching with the team, which he credits to his love for helping others succeed. 

“I wanted to give back to student-athletes and give them the experiences that I had that were wonderful and also the experiences I didn’t like. I wanted to change those things. The biggest thing is giving back to kids, helping them achieve their dreams and more about helping others. I think coaching is one of the greatest ways to give back to others.”
Tyler Wilson

As a player, Wilson ended his career with 364 career assists, which lands sixth in program history—highlighting his ability to impact others around him as a unit. His 161 assists during his junior year are the third-most in school history. 

From an assist leader to an assistant coach, Wilson recognized the importance of African American representation in sports. In a business where the majority of the personnel is white, from the coaching staff to front office positions, Wilson believes it is essential for minority kids to relate to staff in sports.

Now, in his sixth year as a member of the coaching staff for men’s basketball, Wilson takes pride in helping the Black, and minority student-athletes be the best they can be. Through the ups and downs of a basketball season and a school year, Wilson helps guide student-athletes into persevering and growing as not only student-athletes but people.

“I think it’s important because a lot of kids from inner cities… don’t see much but the neighborhood they grew up in,” Wilson said, “it’s great when you see someone that looks like you, that comes from a similar background as you, it makes it easier, it makes you more comfortable to be there… you want to feel like there’s someone that can relate to your experience.”
Tyler Wilson

Wilson sees the ability to relate to his kids’ experiences as a big key to his impact on the team.

“Being able to relate to the guy’s experiences that are here helps them. I know what they’re thinking. I’ve been in their shoes before. It helps me know how to communicate with them,” he said.

“It’s something bigger than just your neighborhood. It’s something bigger than just playing here. Life is a vast place, it’s not just about talking to people that look like you, but you also want to let them know I know how you’re feeling. I’ve been there, and these are the right steps to get to your growth.”
Tyler Wilson

Wilson described his philosophy in coaching and life when speaking about giving back. “Life is about paying it forward, so I feel like the biggest impact on life is how many people you help along the way.”

Specifically, Wilson spoke about Martin Luther King Jr.’s impact on his generation and the others following. He believes people will only remember those who inspire and help others. It is this belief and selflessness that have allowed Wilson to thrive in his role as a coach for Manhattan.

Wilson said one of his favorite quotes is by MLK: 'The time is always right to do what’s right.’ 

“I like to live my life like that. I try to do the right things; obviously, you’re going to make some mistakes along the way but try to do all the right things.” 

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