In the world of college basketball, perseverance is a rare gem, and Ty Pence's journey embodies this virtue. A promising start can quickly fade, but what happens next defines a player's character.
NORMAL — The story of Ryan Pedon and his team's individual meetings is a testament to the power of belief. As the Illinois State Redbirds geared up for the 2025-26 season, Pedon, in his fourth year as head coach, took a unique approach. He ventured beyond the confines of his office and the CEFCU Arena, choosing a coffee shop in Normal as the setting for his conversation with Ty Pence.
And what a conversation it was! Reflecting on Pence's freshman year, they acknowledged the challenges faced. Pence, a highly touted recruit from St. Joseph-Ogden, had arrived with much fanfare. Ranked among the top 10 players in the state and top 50 nationally at his position, he was a 6-foot-6, 205-pound talent with offers from power conferences. But his first season didn't unfold as expected. Starting just once in 24 games, Pence's role was inconsistent, and the Redbirds finished with a 15-17 record, an early exit from the Missouri Valley Conference tournament, and no postseason glory.
Here's where it gets intriguing: Despite the setbacks, Pence didn't join the growing trend of players entering the transfer portal.
"His freshman year didn't go as he wanted, but he stayed the course," Pedon said, emphasizing Pence's character. "In an era where many players would've left, he showed remarkable resilience." This decision to stick with Illinois State became a defining moment in Pence's career.
Fast forward to the 2024-25 season, and Pence's growth is evident. He returned as an upperclassman, with a larger role and leadership responsibilities. The Redbirds, now favored to win the Missouri Valley Conference, are set to face a tough test against No. 17 Illinois. Pence's sophomore season ended on a high note, with a strong performance in the College Basketball Invitational, earning him all-tournament team honors.
But what about that freshman year? Pence admits it was tough but now sees it as a learning experience. "I'm thankful for the struggles because they taught me what I needed to improve on," he said. This mindset shift is crucial, as Pence learned to embrace failure after a stellar high school career. His former coach, Brian Brooks, attests to Pence's exceptional talent, noting that players like him are rare at St. Joseph-Ogden.
The support system around Pence is noteworthy. His teammates and roommates, Chase Walker and Johnny Kinziger, have been integral to his journey. Kinziger praises Pence's unwavering spirit, while Walker highlights his positivity and resilience. This trio forms the core of Illinois State's preseason MVC favorites, a testament to their collective growth.
Controversy lurks in the shadows of success. Could Pence's decision to stay have been a mistake? Some might argue that exploring other opportunities could have been beneficial. But Pence's loyalty and perseverance have paid off, and his sophomore season's success suggests a bright future.
As the Redbirds aim for the NCAA tournament, a goal they've set since day one, Pence's journey serves as a reminder that growth often comes from adversity. Will they achieve their goal? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Ty Pence's story is an inspiring narrative of resilience and loyalty in the face of challenges.
