When Melvin Council Jr. steps on the court, he’s not just another starter. He's a difference maker, and not just that: the type to draw comparisons to Kansas legend Tyshawn Taylor.
And these aren’t just analogies, they’re compliments. Everything from his fearless ‘top dawg’ mentality to the way he rallies teammates has experts and fans alike thinking back to Taylor's glory days in the Crimson and Blue
Council, Taylor on what the comparisons mean
In an interview with Kansas Nation, Council said he’s honored to be mentioned alongside Taylor.
“That’s my big [brother] right there,” Council said. “I love the comparison. He was a legend here, so if you’re going to compare me to him, so be it.”
The similarities are hard to ignore. Both stand around 6’3”–6’4”, weigh in around 180–190 lbs, and play the same position for the Jayhawks. Taylor wore number 10, Council currently suits up wearing 14. And sure the numbers line up, but Council is already making his own mark.
Taylor shared his thoughts in an interview with Brian Hanni:
“For one, Melvin is a great basketball player. I feel grateful that I’m being compared to him the way that he’s playing. The way he’s been leading this team… I loved it.”
It’s not just a stats comparison, either. Both players are praised for leadership and character on and off the court.
Council vs. Taylor: by the numbers
In his final season at Kansas, Taylor averaged 16.6 points, 4.8 assists, and shot 38% from three-point range.
So far this season, Council is putting up 13.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 41% from the floor and 34% from three. He’s also on pace to start 30+ games in what could be his final year in Lawrence if he declares for the draft.
“I’m happy that people are comparing us,” Taylor said. “That’s a great comparison on and off the court because I think he’s a great person, has a great attitude and is headed for great things.”
Council has also heard his name mentioned alongside Brandon Rush, a member of the 2008 national championship squad also coached by Bill Self, but as much as comparisons are fun, he’s leading his own legacy, giving Kansas fans plenty to cheer about.
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