The buzz surrounding Tyjah “TJ” Gaddy began long before he stepped onto the court in front of me. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to catch TJ in action during the Alpha Academy Wolverines 2025-2026 basketball season. At just 10 years old and a fifth grader at the time, he was selected to join the Wolverines’ basketball roster, which is a testament to his talent and basketball IQ. He exhibited the confidence and composure of a skilled NBA veteran.
TJ’s game, reminded the author of Fayetteville native and 2017 NBA lottery pick Dennis Smith Jr. TJ displayed smooth footwork, great ball handling skills, great court vision, and uses his quickness to create scoring opportunities. Along with praise for TJ’s abilities came recognition of the dedication his father, Tyric Gaddy, has invested in developing his son’s game from an early age. Tyric even showcases TJ’s skills on his son’s social media page.
TJ’s performances have made him one of the most promising young basketball prospects in the area to keep your eyes on. He is developing is skills at a good pace with his work ethic and maturity have already caught the attention of coaches and basketball fans.
TJ Gaddy is in action for the Alpha Academy Wolverines while his father, Tyric Gaddy, watches from the sidelines. The team’s bold blue-and-black logo Wolverine logo centerpiece on the court – January 8, 2026; Photo Credit: TC Morrison/The Exclusive Press
Notably, he has participated in basketball scrimmage games like the Tiffany Jones Invitationals in honor of the late female basketball star and Fayetteville State University Broncos Hall of Famer, and the JR FAB 40 (FAB 40 Middle School Showcase), where some of the nation’s top middle school prospects showcase their talents. He also was part of the Bond Jr. National Champs for Baby Shaq Elite 704, who defeated Lakeshow 3SSB, in which the championship tournament was held at Bleachery Fieldhouse in Rock Hill, SC, late last month, and is slated to hit the A Game Hoops Nationals, a grassroots basketball tournament and showcase platform in Lancaster, PA, on July 18th-19th.
With the 2025-2026 season now complete, TJ is continuing to build his basketball résumé. The Class of 2033 prospect is set to compete for a roster spot next week with Team NC on Saturday, July 25, at T.W. Andrews High School in High Point, North Carolina. Team NC is one of the state’s premier traveling basketball programs. Over the years, it has featured several players who later reached the highest levels of the sport. Retired 10-time NBA All-Star Chris Paul competed for Team NC during his youth basketball days in Lewisville, North Carolina, while current Charlotte Hornets guard Coby White developed his game on North Carolina’s AAU circuit before excelling at the University of North Carolina.
From left to right: Tyjah TJ’ Gaddy uniformed for the Baby Shaq Elite 704, and Baby Shaq Elite 704 team and team coach, Coach P (Mr. Hoop State – NC); Courtesy of @babyshaqelite_2033/Instagram
The tryout could be a pivotal game changer for TJ to give him a chance to more competitive games against top talent and continue exposure to the game he loves. He hopes to allow his natural talent and work ethic to speak for himself to impress the coaches and earn a spot on the team.
Be sure to follow Tyjah Gaddy’s Instagram page at @Tjupnext2033 to watch his journey, basketball skills, and game development.
