Oklahoma Sports's Top 30: No. 17 - BTW WR Tyler Lockett
The Booker T. Washingotn two-way star has committed to play college ball at Kansas State, and has committed himself to his faith.
Thursday, July 28th 2011, 5:41 pm
By:
News On 6
Originally Published: Aug 14, 2010 12:2 PM CDT
Oklahoma Sports Top 30 -- Tyler Lockett, Booker T. Washington High School
-View the full Oklahoma Sports Top 30
Bobby Lewis
Oklahoma Sports Mobile Journalist
TULSA, Oklahoma – Tyler Lockett knows there is more to life than just playing football.
“Win or lose, I know I’m still a winner in God’s eyes,” smile the Booker T. Washington standout. “I just play for God.”
His faith gives him the strength to battle adversity, like the physical strife he’s facing now. Lockett hasn’t participated in any football activities outside of conditioning drills all summer while recovering from a broken bone in his right wrist.
“The toughest part has been just watching the team playoff the football field because I wish I could be out there and help them win games,” he said after the team’s first scrimmage of the fall. “It’s really painful, but it’s good to see other players step up because we’re going to need that as the season progresses.”
The 4-inch scar is a daily reminder of what he’s striving to get back to. Lockett is a Kansas State commit and one of Booker T. Washington’s top players. The senior has amazing speed and agility, and has more humility than talent.
“I consider myself a leader at some parts,” admitted Lockett, “but we have other players who step up with leadership (too).”
He helped lead the Hornets to the 2008 5A championship. He expected a breakout year in 2009, but instead, broke a bone against East Central in Week 3. He played the remainder of the football season and helped the Hornets win a 5A gold ball on the basketball court before telling anybody what was wrong.
“That’s his passion for the game,” said new BTW head coach Darrell Hall.
Lockett expects to be back on the field 100 percent healthy by the start of the regular season. If the doctors clear him to play, his head coach expects to see the type of player he heard about before joining the Booker T. staff this spring.
“You know, I’m waiting to see myself,” smiled Hall. “I’ve seen him on tape. I’ve heard he’s unbelievable.”
The Hornets forfeited games for using ineligible players in 2009. Lockett believes the OSSAA sanctions against BTW a season ago only strengthened this year’s squad. He’ll play safety and receiver in 2010, and plans on playing for a title again after the shot at defending their gold ball was taken away.
“We feel like we have a chip on our shoulder and have to get back what was ours from last year,” he said.
Oklahoma Sports Bio -- Tyler Lockett
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 165 pounds
Role Model: His dad, uncle and grandpa John
“I look up to them and they helped me get to where I am today, and my mom too. Most of my family has been there to support me all of my life.”
Favorite Movie: Just Right or Karate Kid
Favorite Food: Chicken
Favorite Video Game: NCAA 2011
Listening to Right Now: Christian music, especially Lecrae and Trip Lee