Why TCU basketball's Isaiah Manning is more than just an athlete

In an ever changing college landscape, it’s become rare to see a blue-chip recruit actually redshirt and decide to stick around at his program.

The allure of playing time and quick money from name, image and likeness is always tempting for any athlete. But Texas Christian University redshirt freshman Isaiah Manning has always marched to the beat of his own drum.

It wasn’t easy redshirting for Manning last season, but he feels a lot different about the situation now than he did last season.

“It was definitely hard I would say, but I think it helped me out overall,” Manning said during a summer practice. “Getting a chance to learn the game without the pressure of playing. I got to learn from guys like (Emanuel Miller) and Micah (Peavy) without the pressure, so it allowed me to get better, so I feel great this year.”

It’s not always easy for young athletes to have that type of patience and perspective, but Manning has always been able to think about the picture. His parents, including his father, TCU professor Dr. Brandon Manning, ensured it while raising him and his siblings.

“It was a huge adjustment and I was really worried about him and his mental space,” Dr. Manning said. “But one of the things we preached with Isaiah is even as he knows what he wants and knows how to go get it, one of the things that can be difficult for somebody like that is just being still and stillness and allowing yourself to listen and sift through everything that’s happening around.

One of the things I appreciate is he’s really introspective and he can see things from a number of different perspectives. He realized the why and how of him being redshirted and I appreciate the coaching staff for being upfront.”

Dr. Manning says the communication between his son and the staff was always consistent and towards the future. Now, with TCU returning just one player from its rotation last season, Manning is one of a dozen new faces competing for open spots in the lineup.

On the court, his talent is easy to see. A year in a college strength and conditioning program has done him wonders as he’s a burly 6-foot-8, 220 pounds. He’s already earning a reputation as a tenacious rebounder and trash talker.

“I’ve known Isaiah for a few years, I played with him in AAU two or three years ago,” TCU freshman forward Micah Robinson said. “It’s been a really good experience. On the court he’s competitive and he talks a lot, it can be a little annoying sometimes, but off the court he’s a great teammate and is always giving me advice. He’s a great guy that wants to see his teammates win.”

...continued

swipe to next page