USU signs Utah’s Mr. Baksetball Tai Wesley

Tai Wesley, who was named Mr. Basketball in the state of Utah this past season, has signed a letter of intent to play at Utah State it was announced by Aggie head coach Stew Morrill on Monday.

Wesley, a 6-7, 230-pound center at Provo High School, earned the Deseret News’ honor as the top player in the state and was named the 4A Most Valuable Player by the Salt Lake Tribune. Wesley led Provo to the state title in 2004 and was named the tournament MVP along the way as he averaged 19.3 points in four games.

“We are delighted to have such an outstanding in-state player joining our team,” Morrilll said. “Tai comes from one of the premier high school programs in the state and possesses a high basketball I.Q. along with excellent skills.”

This past season, Wesley averaged 16.7 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two blocks and one steal while shooting 65 percent from the field. He scored 28 points in two different games and reached 25 points in two other contests.

On the year he had six double-doubles and his season-rebounding high was 15 against Timpanogos. In the state tournament he had 25 points, 13 rebounds and five assists in the semifinals against Bonneville and then added 14 points and 11 assists in the championship victory against Payson.

“Utah State is the best program in the state with the best coach in the state,” Wesley said. “The way the program is based and the way I play, I think I will fit in well.”

Wesley will become the third player of the year from the state of Utah to play with the Aggies in the Stew Morrill era joining Tony Brown (1999) and current standout Nate Harris (2002).

Wesley is the younger brother of former Brigham Young standout Mekeli Wesley and 2003 all-state selection Tika Wesley. He is also a graduate of the same high school that produced Morrill.

“He comes from a supportive family where character and important values have been taught, so he brings a lot to the table,” Morrill said. “We are obviously excited to have such a quality student-athlete decide to become an Aggie.”

“Tai is a a great player and a great passer,” said Provo Head Coach Craig Drury. “He is an all-around player that is going to do a great job for Stew Morrill. It is a family tradition of five boys that have played basketball at Provo High School. Provo High School is very pleased that he is going to be an Aggie.”