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Welcome to the fourth episode of The Bold Break, hosted by Chloë Clark, Director of Multimedia Content at The Big West. 

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Clark will continue to highlight the stories of our student-athletes and coaches around the conference and give a closer insight into who they are individually on and off the field of play.  

In this edition, Clark connected with student-athlete Tyler McGhie of the league-leading UC San Diego Tritons' men's basketball team. McGhie has been a part of transition, both individually and as a part of the UCSD program who finds itself fully eligible for the NCAA Division I postseason for the first time.

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In the world of college basketball, there are certain players who capture the essence of what it means to be a student-athlete. Tyler McGhie, a standout player in a second season for the UC San Diego men's basketball team, is one of those players. 

As the Tritons completed their four-year reclassification to NCAA Division I that ended in July 2024, McGhie has emerged as a key figure in the team's success in the last two seasons. Now in a first year of postseason eligibility, the journey, ambition and dedication to the craft have not only elevated McGhie's game but have also contributed to the team's remarkable achievements as they battle for The Big West crown. 
  
A new era 
Having previously played for Division 2 Southern Nazarene before joining the Tritons' program, McGhie brings a unique perspective to UC San Diego's reclassification to D1. For him, it's more than just a change in competition level – it's an opportunity to dream big and aim to make waves on a national stage. 

"I think people dream of being in the March Madness tournament at a Division I school,” reflects McGhie. “I think we have a really good shot to do that this year. The transition's been really good.” 

With the team's recent success and a strong 2024-25 campaign, McGhie believes that UC San Diego has a genuine shot at making a mark on the national stage. 
  
A collective effort 
One of the key factors behind UCSD's success this season is the team's chemistry and the guidance of the coaching staff. McGhie emphasizes the importance of the Tritons’ tight-knit group and the energy they bring to the court. 

The coaching staff, led by Coach Eric Olen, plays a crucial role in keeping the players motivated and focused. Their belief in the team's potential and ability to execute game plans has been instrumental in their achievements. 

McGhie acknowledges the impact of the coaching staff, stating, "They give us energy and believe we can go out and show that on the court every time. It’s a collective effort." 
  
Crafting his own path 
On the court, McGhie has been a force to be reckoned with, particularly with three-point shooting. With over 90 three-pointers thus far this season, the senior from Denton, Texas currently ranks fifth in the NCAA. The reigning Big West Sixth Player of the Year attributes his success to his teammates, who create opportunities to capitalize on. 
  
"I feel like I’ve come a long way in my career ... We have a lot of chemistry, and my teammates give me a lot of open shots," McGhie explains. "I just trust my craft and shoot with confidence. It’s been a long journey." 

While McGhie is known for his shooting prowess, he strives to contribute in other areas as well. He emphasizes the importance of communication, leadership and defense, not only as an individual but also as a team. McGhie takes pride in his growth as a two-way player, noting that the team's defense has improved collectively because of their efforts. 

McGhie also draws inspiration from NBA player Luka Doncic, whom he admires for his playing style and basketball IQ. Like Doncic, McGhie aims to be mentally sharp on the floor and credits the environment at UC San Diego for helping him become a more intelligent and well-rounded player. 

“Being surrounded by a lot of smart people, I feel like that's helped me in the classroom, as well on the court,” McGhie adds. “I’m becoming a smarter basketball player. Just being around this environment has helped me a lot.” 
  
Sharing the spotlight 
While individual accolades are meaningful, McGhie remains focused on the ultimate goal – a Big West championship and a chance to compete in the NCAA Tournament. While acknowledging the importance of climbing the ladder and improving as a player, McGhie understands that team success is paramount. 

UC San Diego is one of the few D1 institutions with five or more active 1,000-point scorers on its roster and all have a background in Division II. Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones (2,051 - transfer from Hawai'i Hilo), Hayden Grey (1,180 - transfer from Asuza Pacific), Nordin Kapich (1,268 - transfer from Lynn), McGhie (1,694), Milos Vicentic (1,229 - transfer from McKendree) are all well over 1,000 career points in the NCAA with another just 10 points away in Maximo Milovic (990 - transfer from Biola). McGhie recognizes the impact every teammate on the roster and the opportunities they create for each other. 

"We’re all getting buckets. The floor is spread, and it usually feels like one-on-one out there," McGhie explains. "The coaching staff puts us in great spots to be the best players we can be, and I feel like they do that for everyone.” 

The chemistry within the team is undeniable, and McGhie describes it as joyful. 

"It's a collective effort, and we all elevate each other's game," he adds. 
  
A slept-on conference 
Playing in the Big West has been an eye-opening experience for McGhie. He believes that the conference is underrated and deserving of more national attention. 

"The Big West is definitely slept on," McGhie asserts. "I think this league is really, really good this year. It's a really competitive league, and I think it deserves more recognition." 

Despite the lack of national attention in the recent past, McGhie and the Tritons are determined force their way into the conversation while promoting the program and The Big West in the best way possible. They are driven by their shared goals and the desire to put UC San Diego on the map in D1 men's basketball.