Alabama Player Spotlight: 2023 Guard Kyle Layton
Alabama’s Newcomer
Kyle Layton is a 6-foot-1 slashing guard, and he has definitely had a breakout season in his first season with a winning program of the Mountain Brook Spartans.
The Spartans finished the regular season with a 29-5 record and made a strong push in the playoffs but would face an early exit in an overtime showdown. Mountain has a nice core for next season, and Layton will be that driving force to get them back to the state championship.
Layton played great this season, averaging 15 points, three assists, and put in some significant work on defense as expected from Coach Davis with three steals a game. He stated that playing intense defense is something that comes.
One of the best parts of Layton’s game is his explosiveness getting to the basket and his quickness in the transition. His shot around the perimeter is excellent, and with good handles, his isolation game is one of the best.
Layton says he spent a lot of the summer working on his game and is happy with his progress but understands there is still a need for improvement.
“During the summer, I worked a lot on my catch and shoot, moving without the ball, making better reads off the pick and roll and my on and off-ball defense,” he said.
He mentioned that he is continually improving on his ball-handling, shooting, and making better reads on the floor.
A Prospective College
As a junior, Layton has pulled in offers from Samford and Old Dominion. A few programs that have been in contact with him are Mercer, Tennessee Tech, and North Alabama.
We asked Layton what he felt he could bring to a college program and what he’s looking for in a school himself.
“I’ll bring great energy to the team not only on the offensive end but also on the defensive end,” he said. “I take pride in my defense and being a leader on and off the court.”
Layton says he is looking for the best fit in his college choice. He wants to play for a coach that pushes him hard for a chance to reach his full potential and be at a school with a great culture.
On and Off the Court
To get better with his craft on the court, Layton looks to other players to improve his game. He studies players like Steph Curry and how he shoots it and moves without the ball, Kyries handle and how he finishes, and Patrick Beverly’s intensity on defense.
Like every other player, Layton also has a pre-game ritual that gets him locked in to compete.
“Before every game, I take a hot shower, stretch, and then meditate. I like listening to artists like Daniel Caesar, Brent Faiyaz, Sza, and J. Cole,” he said. He also stated that his favorite pregame snack is fruit or a snickers bar.
Layton’s hobby outside of basketball is playing video games with friends
One thing he wanted others to know about him is that he is a sneakerhead and has about 30 pairs of Jordans.
“Outside of the normal basketball stuff, basketball continues to teach me how to never quit and fight through adversity. I have been through a lot of adversity with basketball, but I always keep working, knowing one day it will pay off.”
