s basketball evolves, we continue to see more coaches, scouts, and general managers focus on the intangibles within a players’ game. When looking at two random players of similar skill-sets, typically the prospect that stands at 6-foot-8 will be more sought out than one listed at 6-foot-1. This is unfortunate, especially as guys like Mike Conley and Chris Paul (just to name a few) have showed that size isn’t everything. A player that possesses a high basketball IQ and understands their role has the potential to be far more valuable than the prospect that takes twenty shots to net twenty points. 6’0 Taji Moore (2018) fits that mold perfectly and could have college coaches kicking themselves in the long run.
A Kinston native, Moore understands disciplined, hard-nosed basketball and it’s evident in the way he plays. There isn’t a hole in his game, simply put. Offensively, Moore doubles as a three-level scorer and phenomenal passer; his vision is supremely underrated, as he has a knack for threading needles and attacking angles that others wouldn’t try in their wildest dreams. Moore is a floor leader and willing passer whose only interest is making the smart play; he is as unselfish as they come, looking to do whatever it takes to win. The only thing that hurts Moore is the aforementioned unselfishness, since a wide variety of coaches want to recruit a point guard that looks to score. However, there should be no doubt or reluctance on coaches interested in Moore, as he can score (very well, on all three levels (see above)) but is just wired to make the right play. If his team needs a basket, Moore can go out and get one, from wherever he wants. His leadership is two-fold: vocal and by example. Moore takes great pride in his defensive abilities and consistently shuts down the best opposing guard. He makes his voice heard, calling out assignments, switches, and help rotations every possession. In many ways, Moore is the heart of the team; he makes all of his teammates better on both ends of the floor, which is an irreplaceable skill.
This AAU season, Moore has been playing with the Carolina Wolves and his two-way impact has played a huge part in the teams’ success. We asked Wolves coach, Stephen Rexrode, about Moore’s role and impact this season, his response: “Taji could score 15-20 PPG if he wanted, but he prefers to have 10 assists and get his teammates involved. He’s the vocal leader of this team and sets the example on defense.” Through the first three months of summer ball Moore is averaging a stat line of 8 PPG, 8 APG, 5 RPG, and 3 SPG while shooting 60% from three-point territory. His ability to affect all facets of the game is a terrific strength and opponents frequently struggle with Moore’s widespread arsenal.
We asked Moore to describe his game and what he wants to do on the basketball floor. His response: “I view my game as a lock-up defender and pass-first guard that looks to get everyone involved, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win.” Moore is incredibly hardworking and humble; his game reflects his personality, in the best way.
Moore has begun to see an uptick in his recruiting, as VMI, NCCU, Mount Olive and UNCP have all reached out to him over the last week. Increased interest (and eventual offers) should be on the horizon for him; Moore is incredibly underrated, so the right college program would net a steal if they took a chance on the Kinston product.