MSCC’s Top Scorer Accepts Henderson State Scholarship

Kaylon Tappin, who led the Mid-South Community College Greyhounds in scoring and finished among the team leaders in almost every statistical category, has accepted a scholarship from Henderson State University.

The freshman averaged 16.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting 52 percent from field and 77 percent from the free throw line at MSCC.

"We are very excited about the signing of Kaylon; he will have an immediate impact on our team," said Jimmy Elgas, head coach of the Reddies who compete in Division II of the NCAA.

"Kaylon is an outstanding shooter and scorer and also has the ability to play multiple positions on the perimeter. He is a natural leader, competitor and tremendous worker. Tapp is the total package and will be a great representative for the Henderson State basketball program."

Greyhounds Coach Chris Parker said he hates to lose Tappin but understands the young man's decision to sign with HSU.

"After an outstanding freshman year, Tapp earned an opportunity he couldn't pass up and decided to sign to play his last three years at Henderson State," Parker said. "He obviously did a great job in leading us in scoring and three-point shooting, but his work ethic, academic commitment and high character are what separates him from others."

"We told Tapp when we recruited him that we are here to move players on to four-year opportunities. We are thankful that we had him for a year, and we look forward to watching his continued progress at Henderson State."

The Little Rock Hall product scored more than 20 points in eight of 26 contests last season, and he notched a career-high 32 points and grabbed 15 boards against Northwest Mississippi Community College on Nov. 24 in a 98-89 Greyhounds' victory over the NJCAA Division I Rangers.

The 6-1 guard drained a season-high four three-pointers against West Kentucky Community and Technical College on Jan. 31.

Tappin said he enjoyed playing for the Greyhounds and appreciated the campus-wide support he received.

"My time at Mid-South was great. I had a tremendous freshmen year, and I appreciate everything the school has done for me. All of my teammates, coaches, and teachers played a big role in helping me become a better person. I appreciate Coach Parker for taking me under his wing when I came out of high school when nobody else believed in my game."

Tappin said he is excited about the opportunity to play for the Reddies.

"I think that it's the best school for me because of the great people and the way I fit in with the basketball team. I've heard nothing but good things about instructors there, and that's something that caught my attention.

"I am very comfortable with the coaching staff and believe they will all treat me well. They will help me elevate my game and also help me become successful even after my career there is over."

Tappin will also be reunited with his cousin, Eric Daily, a fellow Warrior who has signed with HSU as well.

Six members of Mid-South's 2014-15 Greyhounds team have accepted basketball scholarships at four-year institutions. All five of MSCC's graduating sophomores will play and pursue higher education at the next level, including Justin Harris and Tony White (Central Baptist College), John Braxton and Shaquille Culbreath (Crowley's Ridge College), and Marquavious Smith (Tougaloo College).