When the Tri City Tide began assembling their roster ahead of the 2025 season, they weren’t just looking for scorers or size, but someone who could score when needed, defend across positions, adapt to any lineup, and do the dirty work when it mattered. In Kyler Haynes, they found exactly that.

Standing 6’7” and hailing from Augusta, Georgia, Kyler brought length, athleticism, and toughness to the Tide frontcourt. But what truly set him apart was his presence. Calm, unselfish, and always ready to compete, Kyler became a vital piece in the Tide’s identity throughout the season.

From Georgia to the Pros

Kyler’s basketball journey didn’t follow the most traditional path,but it was one defined by perseverance. After developing his game in Georgia, he took the jump to the professional ranks with the Emerald City Jaguars during the 2024 TBL season. Though he joined them late in the year, he made an immediate impact as a starter, averaging 15.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game.

That stretch opened eyes across the league. Despite not having a full year under his belt, Kyler’s feel for the game, ability to finish through contact, and switchable defense made him one of the more intriguing forwards available during the offseason. The Tri City Tide wasted no time bringing him in.

The Origin Of The “X Factor”

Heading into training camp, Kyler wasn’t guaranteed a starting role. But it didn’t take long for the coaching staff to see what kind of weapon they had in the 6’7” wing. Whether it was stepping out to hit a midrange jumper, locking up smaller guards on the perimeter, or flying in for help-side blocks, Kyler was consistently in the right place at the right time.

His first big test came early in the season when the Tide went on a three-game road trip to Newfoundland. With limited practice time and no home-court comfort, he made a name for himself on that trip with consistent buckets, transition defence, and relentless rebounding. It was clear: he belonged in the TBL.

Beyond The Stat Sheet

In 2025, Kyler averaged 18.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game. He shot 38.6% from the field, 33.7% from three, and 80.2% from the free throw line, These numbers tell only part of the story as Kyler’s real value came in the intangible areas, his help defense, ability to draw fouls and willingness to sacrifice for the team.

He was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s top scorer, switching between guards and forwards depending on matchups. His length and footwork allowed the Tide to run more aggressive defensive schemes. When they needed a tough rebound, a steady hand, or an extra effort play, Kyler was always the first to step up.

He also developed great chemistry with the Tide’s guards. Whether it was cutting behind the defense for a backdoor layup or popping out for a short jumper when drives collapsed the defense, Kyler consistently made himself available in the right spots.

Notable Performances

Several games stood out as defining moments in Kyler’s season:

• May 25th vs. Tri State Admirals – 30 points, 8 rebounds on 50% from the field.
  
  
• May 2nd vs. Halifax Hoopers – 27 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal.
  
  
• April 27th vs. Albany Patroons – 13 points, 17 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block
  
  

Even in games where he didn’t score big, Kyler’s impact was felt through hustle plays, screens, deflections, and spacing. He made the players around him better and that’s what coaches remember most.

The Intangibles

Kyler is the kind of player every locker room needs. He doesn’t demand the spotlight, but he earns respect. Younger teammates looked up to him for his work ethic, his ability to take coaching, and the quiet confidence he brought to each game. Whether in film sessions, practice or in-game adjustments, he approached every detail like a professional.

Off the court, he built strong connections in the Moncton community. From taking time with fans postgame to helping promote youth basketball, Kyler embraced being a part of something bigger than basketball. He carried himself with class and consistency, qualities that set the tone for others.

Shooting Turnaround and Small-Ball Impact

Midway through the season, Kyler transformed his efficiency. After beginning the year shooting just 37% from the field, he locked in and delivered closing performances that reached or hovered around 50% shooting. His improved shot selection and confidence gave the Tide a reliable scoring threat at the forward spot. He also thrived in small-ball lineups, often playing the 5, where his mobility and ability to stretch the floor allowed the team to switch everything defensively while still competing on the boards. With reliable rebounding with performances of 17, 10, and 12 during the season, there’s no reason to believe Kyler Haynes can’t become a consistent double-double machine.

A Core Piece for the Future

By the end of the season, it was clear: Kyler Haynes wasn’t just a role player, he was a pillar for the Tide. His blend of size, intelligence and toughness gave the team a level of stability and flexibility that they relied on every game. He could defend, stretch the floor, pass and finish. More importantly, he showed up ready to compete every single night.

As the Tri City Tide look to build on the momentum from the 2025 campaign, Kyler’s presence is more than welcome, it’s essential. With a full season under his belt and deeper chemistry with the core group, he’ll continue to be the kind of player that winning teams are built around.