Tyson Etienne has been back in New York recently. This time, however, Etienne has a lot more at stake as he looks to open up a new chapter in his professional career.
Etienne who starred at Long Island Lutheran and later Putnam Science Academy (CT), recently completed a workout with the Knicks.The Knicks hold the 11th and 42nd pick of the upcoming 2022 NBA Draft.
Etienne, who averaged 14.9 points at Wichita State as a junior, was one of six guys recently selected for a workout.As a shot maker with more athleticism than he’s credited for, the 6-foot-2, 203-pound Etienne would be a unique choice not only because of his local connection.
Etienne is the God son of Marcus Camby, the former Knicks forward who played a significant role on the last Knicks team to reach the NBA finals back in 1999.
Camby, who re-signed the with the Knicks during the sunset of his NBA career with a veteran core that included Rasheed Wallace and Jason Kidd back in 2013, has been instrumental in mentoring Etienne. Current Putnam Science Associate head coach Josh Scraba cited Etienne’s drive as an area where he differentiates himself.
“With us he was the most unique player we’ve ever had as far as work ethic,” Scraba said.”I probably won’t ever say this about any other player but he had a Kobe-like mentality.”
Scraba recalls the constantly locked in Etienne having documented workouts, his own personal meal plan, a strict routine that includes 1,500 made jump shots daily.
Etienne averaged 17 points on a team that included myriad Division 1 bound players, including Queens native Hassan Diarra (UConn).
“I’ve never seen a post graduate take advantage of the environment like (Etienne) did,” Scraba said.
During his time at both LUHI and Putnam Science, Etienne was always a physically advanced guard.
His offensive skill set translated instantly at Wichita State, where he was Co-ACC Player of the Year during the 2020-2021 season. Etienne shared this honor with current Knicks shooter and 2021 draft pick, Quentin Grimes (Houston).
