Sophomore Jordan Tyson is a redshirt with Georgia State this season after spending two seasons at St. Bonaventure. Each month during the season, he will give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it is like to have to redshirt and not get to play. Make sure to check GeorgiaStateSports.com every month for another edition of A Redshirt's Guide to College Basketball.
This year has been a great growing experience for me. Transferring and having to sit out this season has given me the opportunity to look at the game from a different perspective. The biggest challenge however when it comes to redshirting is being able to stay mentally engaged even though you're not out there on the court executing. It can get boring sometimes constantly sitting on the sideline, watching the teammates you've come to know and love battle and win games.
This team has inspired me though. From the coaches to the players. Our approach here at Georgia State is very different. The approach is simple. Have fun and win games. That being said, we are still just as competitive as any college team in the country. That spirit has rubbed off on me.
Being able to enjoy this process of redshirting and understanding that it'll only make me better when I'm actually out there on the court next year. Guys like Jeff Thomas really inspire me. I'm actually sitting by him as I write this. He's an Ohio native like me. He wasn't able to play his first year at Georgia State either, but he embraced the challenge and came back and is one of our most important guys; even a starter at times. His story and where he's at now and the great attitude he has towards the game and life in general is truly inspirational.
It's allowed me to look at this year as a chance to learn and grow, and not to pout. While there are times where I might get down and upset that I can't play, I always keep in mind that every moment is an opportunity for success and that I'm not far from that success.
For any college athlete that may be reading this and is redshirting and going through a tough time; just know that things do get better. Life, sports, relationships, trials and tribulations all get better when you embrace everything and everyone around you.
When I first came to Georgia State I was resistant to this. I was resistant to change. I didn't want to try something new, adjust to another environment and new people. What allowed things to turn around was me just living in the moment, and putting my best foot forward in everything I do while I'm here. I know it doesn't last forever, but I believe the impact I have this year, even while sitting out, and the years to come, can leave a impact and culture change that will last forever.
I love this program and all the opportunities it has provided for me now and in the future. I would die for these guys and I can say that with boldness because I'm losing the sense of selfishness and self-gratitude, and understanding that my greater purpose is to serve my brother and sister through me developing my passion into excellence. When I decided to look at this season as a season of opportunity, is when everything changed.
Until next month, Go Panthers!
Jordan Tyson
