Throughout his childhood, Taye Fields grew inspiration from his two brothers who played basketball, and he strived to be just like them. Consequently, he was held at an exceptionally high standard as a child. He did not mind it though–his brothers were huge role models in his life. His parents noticed at a very young age that he enjoyed playing basketball as well. Fields always had a love for the game, traveling with his friends in the Amateur Athletic Union and playing in middle school. During that time, he became more confident in his skills and realized that he could truly excel in this sport if he set his mind to it.
Fields went to Lee High School in Huntsville, Alabama. As a senior, he led his team to a 13-1 record and 5A state championship. Taye’s current teammate Jacari Lane also played for that same Lee team. As a result, their relationship grew very strong.
Before transferring to UNA his senior year, Fields played three seasons at Missouri Western State University (MWSU). Each year, his statistics grew more impressive. His freshman year, he averaged 6.8 PPG with a season high of 29 points and 15 rebounds. He later earned an All-Conference honorable mention and All-Conference third team his sophomore and junior year.
Fields mentioned that being able to play with Lane again after high school inspired him to move to UNA and made for a smooth transition from MWSU.
He said, “Being able to play with Jacari made the transition so much easier for me. Not only on the court, but off the court as well. He’s a great person that I’m thankful to have as a friend. It’s just a blessing to be able to play with one of your high school teammates that you are close with”.
So far his senior year, Fields averages 16 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 6 assists per game with a season high of 25 points against Charleston Southern University and 17 rebounds versus Stetson University, both leading to victories. His hard work is going far from unnoticed. Most recently, Fields earned the ASUN player of the week title.
Fields credits his exceptional gameplay to putting God first as well as his empowering teammates and coaches.
He said, “I believe I have grown as a player because my confidence level is higher. Being around guys that push you everyday and a coaching staff that believes in you to the fullest is one of the best things for a player. I wouldn’t be able to play the way I can if it wasn’t for those guys”.
Furthermore, Fields mentions that basketball isn’t all that he enjoys. He spends his free time playing video games and spending time with his family.
“I’m a country boy, so if i’m not playing basketball or gaming, I’m outside doing yard work or hunting with my dad,” he said
Fields’s goal for the rest of his time at UNA is to win the ASUN conference and go to the NCAA tournament, which he says is the “icing on the cake” for him.
End of season goals is not all that Fields is focusing on. He expressed his ambitions for after graduation and what it means to him.
He said, “After I graduate, hopefully I can get an opportunity to play professionally. That has been a dream of mine my whole life and it would be awesome to see that come true”.
As the Lions continue to strive for excellence with only 12 conference games left in the season, Fields uses his outstanding talent as well as his dedication to the game to end his final season with UNA on a great note.
