Tayshana Murphy

ESPN.COM GRANTLAND.COM Writer Johnathan Abrams said it best, "Mention a court in New York City, West 4th, Rucker Park, Orchard Beach, they don't just know of Tayshana "Chicken" Murphy. They know her. She possessed that killer crossover and played "man strong," as Taylonn, her father, likes to say. Tayshana loved contact. "Babies," she called the girls who helplessly bounced off of her when she drove to the rim. She played taller than her 5-foot-7 and with a fierceness that contrasted against her gentle, hazel eyes." Tayshana Dejenea Murphy was born on May 4, 1993 in Brooklyn, New York. She was the daughter of Tephanie Holston & Taylonn Murphy Sr. Tayshana had Four Siblings: Robert, Tanasia, Taylonn Jr. and Deana. Tayshana gave her life to Christ on March 16, 2007, when she became a member of Progressive Baptist Church. Education: She was a senior at Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers and a nationally-ranked point guard; several colleges were actively recruiting her. Achievements: Tayshana, a highly touted girl's prep basketball player was rated the class of 2012's No. 16 point guard by ESPN.com's HoopGurlz recruiting site, and was cited as one of the top girl's basketball prospects in the city by the Daily News. Accolades: Super Showcase ATL-Fall 09: Her nickname is Chicken but that definitely doesn't describe Tayshana Murphy's game. At 5-6, Tayshana wass almost impossible to stay in front of because of her quick feet and tight handle. With the ball in her hands she was so dangerous because she was always in attack mode; slashing to the basket allows her to create shots for herself and her teammates. Her crossover dribble was straight from the playgrounds of New York City and it may be one of the best in the girls' game today. Attributes: Tayshana was known for her hazel eyes and bright smile; she was kind, unselfish and loyal to both family and friends. Tayshana also enjoyed dancing and writing poetry.