Perkins-Tryon’s Tucker Shepherd has enjoyed playing the game of basketball for a while. During his career, he has grown and improved his skill level, which he attributes to the work that he has put in.

“I have spent a lot of time in the gym, working on my game,” Shepherd said. “Something else that is helpful is to keep yourself motivated. I use those who doubt me as well as my desire to succeed to help me stay focused.”

Tucker is a junior and plays shooting guard on the hardwood. Throughout his career, he and his teammates have faced a number of different teams. But he says that there are a couple of matchups that stand out as his favorites.

“Probably my highlight moment would be beating Crossings Christian at home in the regional championship game in front of our classmates,” he recalled. “It was great to feel their support and excitement. Also, anytime we can beat Cushing is a good win, mainly because they are our rivals.”

Dylan Parker is the head boys’ basketball coach at Perkins-Tryon and he says that Tucker is an outstanding player that knows the game well.

“He is an elite shooter,” the coach said. “And he’s grown to six-foot-three and has really developed other parts of his game. Tucker was our second-leading scorer last season as a sophomore on an area finals team and has a great chance to lead us in scoring this year. I believe he has a chance to become a real breakout player in Class 4A this season.”

Throughout his life, there have been people that have had an influence on Tucker’s life. Not only did they influence his game, but also him as a person.

“My parents are my biggest role models,” he said. “They have pushed me to be the best that I can be at whatever I do. Another would be my sophomore English teacher, Sarah Jackson, because she was positive, encouraging, and made English fun. Lastly, my teammate Quincy Mouton. He pushes me to be a better player and he is a tough defender.”