Cavs' Jaylon Tyson Makes Huge Year 2 Leap in the NBA

The former Cal star has seen a 286% scoring increase in his sophomore season, the biggest jump of any ex-Cal player.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Jaylon Tyson, a former star at the University of California, Berkeley, has made a remarkable leap in his second NBA season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyson's scoring has increased by 286% compared to his rookie year, the biggest year-over-year improvement of any ex-Cal player in the league.

Why it matters

Tyson's rapid development is a testament to his hard work and potential, and it highlights the continued success of Cal players in the NBA. His breakout season has helped the Cavaliers, who are currently fourth in the Eastern Conference standings.

The details

After averaging just 3.6 points per game as a rookie, Tyson has boosted his scoring to 13.9 points per game this season. He's also improved his efficiency, shooting 51.4% from the field and 47.5% from 3-point range, which ranks him second in the NBA. Tyson's increased production has earned him a starting role alongside future Hall of Famers Donovan Mitchell and James Harden.

  • Tyson was a first-round draft pick of the Cavaliers in 2024 after a standout season at Cal.
  • As a rookie in the 2024-25 season, Tyson played in 47 games and averaged 3.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.9 assists.
  • In the 2025-26 season, Tyson's numbers have skyrocketed to 13.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.

The players

Jaylon Tyson

A 6-foot-6 wing player who was a first-round draft pick of the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2024 after a standout season at the University of California, Berkeley.

Donovan Mitchell

A future Hall of Famer and current starting backcourt teammate of Tyson on the Cavaliers.

James Harden

A future Hall of Famer and recent acquisition who now starts in the Cavaliers' backcourt alongside Tyson and Donovan Mitchell.

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What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their strong season and secure a high playoff seed in the Eastern Conference, with Tyson playing a key role in their success.

The takeaway

Jaylon Tyson's remarkable improvement from his rookie to sophomore season in the NBA is a testament to his hard work and potential. His breakout year has helped the Cavaliers become a contender in the Eastern Conference, and it highlights the continued success of Cal players in the league.