Jaylon Tyson’s sophomore season in Cleveland has been nothing short of a breakout - and now, the rest of the basketball world is about to see what Cavs fans have known for months: this kid can play.
As NBA All-Star Weekend tips off tonight, all eyes may be on Donovan Mitchell representing the Cavaliers in the main event, but don’t sleep on the Rising Stars game. That’s where Tyson will take center stage, suiting up for Team T-Mac in the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars showcase.
Tyson will run alongside a talented group that includes Kon Knueppel, Kel'el Ware, Tre Johnson, Bub Carrington (who steps in for Alexandre Sarr), Ajay Mitchell, and Cam Spencer. NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady will coach the squad - and if there’s anyone who knows what it looks like when a young scorer starts to figure it out, it’s T-Mac.
Tipoff for Team T-Mac’s first game is set for 9:55 p.m. ET, and that’s when the national spotlight turns toward a player who’s already become a key piece of Cleveland’s rotation.
Tyson’s Leap Is Real - And the Numbers Back It Up
Coming off a relatively quiet rookie season, Tyson entered his second year with something to prove. The Cavaliers coaching staff made it clear in the offseason that they believed in his growth, and 50 games in, it’s obvious why.
Tyson is averaging 13.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and nearly a steal per game in just under 28 minutes a night. He’s doing it efficiently too - shooting 51.4% from the field and a scorching 47.5% from deep. That’s not just a hot stretch - that’s elite-level shooting, and it’s been consistent.
But it’s not just about the box score. Tyson’s impact goes beyond numbers.
He’s brought steady energy and effort to a Cavaliers team that, at times earlier this season, struggled to find consistency. Whether it’s crashing the boards, defending his position, or making the right reads on offense, Tyson has earned the trust of the coaching staff - and his teammates.
Cleveland’s Vote of Confidence
The Cavaliers didn’t just talk about believing in Tyson - they backed it up with a bold move. The front office traded away De’Andre Hunter, clearing the way for Tyson to take on a larger role in the wing rotation. That’s a major show of faith in a second-year player, but Tyson has rewarded that trust with maturity and production well beyond his years.
This isn’t just a developmental story anymore. Tyson has become a reliable contributor on a team with playoff aspirations. He’s not being hidden on the bench or eased into situations - he’s being counted on, and he’s delivering.
A Rising Star, Ready for the Spotlight
Tonight’s Rising Stars game is more than just a fun exhibition - it’s a national stage, and for Tyson, it’s a chance to announce himself to fans and analysts who haven’t been paying attention. For Cavaliers fans, it’s a bit of a “told you so” moment.
They’ve seen the growth firsthand. Now, everyone else gets a front-row seat.
If Tyson shows out under the All-Star Weekend lights, don’t be surprised if the buzz starts to build. Not just about his shooting or his stats, but about his role in Cleveland’s future. Because make no mistake - Jaylon Tyson isn’t just on the rise.
He’s already arrived.