When people hear the word “sniper” on a college campus, it usually raises eyebrows. But at Utah Valley University, the term has taken on a completely different—and far more exciting—meaning this season. The Wolverines have found themselves a true long-range assassin on the basketball court, and his name is Tyler Hendricks.
A transfer from UCF, Hendricks has quickly become one of the most dangerous shooters in college basketball. Through the current season, he is knocking down an eye-opening 50.7% of his shots from beyond the arc, a number that places him among the elite shooters in the country. As Utah Valley prepares to face Tarleton State tomorrow night, all eyes will once again be on the Wolverines’ newest weapon.
A Transfer Making an Immediate Impact
Transfers often take time to adjust—new teammates, new system, new expectations. Tyler Hendricks has needed none of that. From the moment he stepped onto the court wearing a Utah Valley jersey, it was clear that he brought something special with him from UCF: confidence, composure, and a silky-smooth shooting stroke.
Shooting over 50% from three-point range isn’t just impressive—it’s rare. Defenses know what Hendricks wants to do, yet they still struggle to stop it. Whether it’s a catch-and-shoot opportunity from the corner or a deep pull-up over a closing defender, he consistently finds a way to deliver.
Why 50.7% From Three Is Elite
To understand just how remarkable Hendricks’ shooting has been, context matters. In college basketball, a three-point percentage above 40% is considered excellent. Cross the 45% mark, and you’re talking about one of the best shooters in the nation. At 50.7%, Hendricks isn’t just good—he’s lethal.
This kind of efficiency forces opposing teams to completely rethink their defensive strategy. Help defense becomes risky. Zone defenses stretch thinner. One moment of hesitation, and Hendricks makes them pay.
Changing the Way Defenses Play Utah Valley
The ripple effect of a shooter like Tyler Hendricks goes beyond the box score. His presence on the floor opens up space for everyone else. Defenders can’t sag off him, which means driving lanes are wider and post players face fewer double teams.
Utah Valley’s offense has benefited massively from this spacing. When Hendricks is on the perimeter, defenders are glued to him, often leaving teammates with easier looks. Even when he isn’t shooting, his gravity is constantly influencing the game.
From UCF to Utah Valley: A Perfect Fit
While Hendricks developed his game at UCF, his move to Utah Valley seems to have unlocked another level. The Wolverines’ system allows him to play freely, read defenses, and take smart shots within the flow of the offense.
Coaches often talk about “fit,” and Hendricks appears to be the perfect match for Utah Valley’s style of play. He doesn’t force shots, doesn’t rush decisions, and understands when to attack and when to move the ball.
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The Mental Edge of a “Sniper”
Great shooters aren’t just technically sound—they’re mentally tough. Shooting percentages like Hendricks’ require unwavering confidence. Misses don’t linger. Pressure moments don’t shake him. Late in games, when defenses tighten and nerves creep in, he looks comfortable.
That mentality is what separates good shooters from true snipers. Hendricks plays with the calm belief that the next shot is going in, no matter what happened on the last possession.
Utah Valley vs Tarleton State: What to Watch For
As Utah Valley gets ready to take on Tarleton State, Hendricks’ role will once again be central. Tarleton State will almost certainly make slowing him down a priority, but that’s easier said than done.
Expect aggressive close-outs, face-guarding, and quick switches designed to limit his open looks. The question is whether Tarleton State can contain him without giving up easy opportunities elsewhere on the floor. If they overcommit, Utah Valley’s offense could thrive in other areas.
More Than Just a Shooter
While the headlines focus on Hendricks’ three-point percentage, his value doesn’t end there. He moves well without the ball, understands spacing, and makes smart reads. He doesn’t need the offense built around him to make an impact.
That versatility makes him even more dangerous. When defenders sell out to stop the three, he’s capable of attacking close-outs, finding teammates, or resetting the offense.
What This Means for Utah Valley’s Season
Having a shooter like Tyler Hendricks changes expectations. Games that once felt tight suddenly feel manageable. Comebacks become possible. Late-game situations feel less stressful when you know a single possession can swing momentum.
If Hendricks continues shooting at this level, Utah Valley becomes a much tougher opponent as the season progresses. In tournament settings, where one hot shooter can alter an entire bracket, his presence could prove invaluable.
Final Thoughts
There may not be a literal sniper on campus at Utah Valley University, but on the basketball court, Tyler Hendricks fits the description perfectly. Shooting 50.7% from three-point range, the UCF transfer has transformed the Wolverines’ offense and established himself as one of the most efficient shooters in college basketball.
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