Colts’ Fritz has ‘big’ sophomore season

Tyler Fritz made big things happen this season.

The Marian Catholic sophomore averaged 23.64 points per game, shot 81 percent from the foul line, and drained 57 three-pointers, en route to earning the Times News Boys Basketball Player of the Year award.

“This season was very different from last year, as we lost most of our key players to graduation,” Fritz said. “I had a much bigger role. I needed to become more of a leader and an offensive threat … We had a very dedicated team and worked hard for everything we earned this season.”

Speaking of big things, Fritz hit a bit of a growth spurt since the beginning of his freshman campaign. His newfound size helped strengthen his game in many different aspects.

“I started at 5-10 as a freshman and ended this year just under 6-2,” said Fritz. “My confidence has changed in terms of driving to the basket and rebounding.”

Fritz described his role as larger, but in reality, he was the focal point of the team. Being the key component of the team carries many responsibilities. Not only can he score at will, but he ranked second on the team in assists.

“Tyler continues to develop as one of the best offensive threats in the area,” said Marian head coach John Patton. “He is a skilled shooter, he has the ability to get to the basket and shoot 80 percent from the foul line. While being the focus of the opposing defenses, he has developed his passing skills. Tyler works hard on his skills, but perhaps his best asset is his ability to make his teammates better.”

Having so much responsibility to score and make plays resulted in Fritz having the ball in his hands quite a bit.

“I think I improved most in my ballhandling, my ability to get to the basket, and most importantly, being a better leader on and off the floor,” Fritz said. “I think shooting the ball is the best attribute of my game.”

Fritz seems to have a great support system that is willing to put in tons of hours and hard work with him every step of the way.

“I would have never gotten to this point if it wasn’t for my family, friends, and coaches for always pushing me,” said Fritz. “My dad has coached me since fourth grade. He’s always encouraging me to get better if it’s on the court or in the weight room. Aside of my dad, my grandfather, Bob Fulton, has had a major impact on me. He works with me day in and day out. He motivated me to be a great basketball player, but an even better person.

Fritz becoming a Schuylkill League star didn’t just happen overnight, but rather it’s a testament to how hard he works. And just because the season is over doesn’t mean it is for Fritz.

In fact, for him, it never ends.

“I put countless hours of practice in on a daily basis in the offseason,” Fritz said. “My postseason consists of four to six hours of practice a day. I shoot hundreds of three-pointers, hundreds of jump shots, and hundreds of free throws daily.”

His hard work has translated to his strong skill set. Now, Fritz has the physical and mental tools to make any given play that his team needs.

One thing is clear. He wants the ball.

“What I love most about basketball is when it’s a close game, everything is on the line, and the crowd is going crazy,” Fritz said. “I live for big moments and incredible atmospheres. That’s what it’s all about.”