University City’s Star Freshman Athlete: Tay Lockett
Tay Lockett is a 2026 recruit who is an Athlete at University City High School. Lockett is ranked among one of the top recruits in the class of 2026 and is ranked among one of the top Athletes in the class as well. In addition, Lockett is listed among one of the top recruits in the state of California and is listed among one of the top Athletes in the state of California. He holds offers from schools such as Georgia, Michigan, and USC.
Who are some role models in your life?
I have a good amount of people who I keep close to the vest and my brother, Ayden Lockett, is one of them for sure. COVID-19 really hurt him and his recruiting process. He played football as well but is a real magician on the basketball court. I feel like some of my success comes from learning from many of his lessons. I call them lessons because I do not consider them to be mistakes. He is, and will always be, my first best friend and I truly do appreciate him.
What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
Before the game, I don’t listen to anything that’s going to get me hyped up. The music I actually listen to keeps me relaxed and locked in. Rod Wave’s music is my calm before the storm.
What are the strengths of your game?
I believe I have many strengths that help me and my ability to play the game. My knowledge and vision allow me to put myself in good positions. I wear the Riddell Axiom while playing and its panoramic view of the field allows me to have great field vision while still offering the protection I need. I would say my strongest attribute is my technique. I’m constantly working on getting in and out of my breaks. I dedicate myself to T-stepping and quick stepping at least 100 times a day.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
Playing for the Tierrasanta Cougars, an American Youth Football (AYF) organization, within the San Diego Youth Football and Cheer (SDYFC) conference and traveling to Florida for a chance to win a National Championship my 7th grade year has been my favorite moment. Unfortunately, we took 3rd but the memories that I have and am continuing to make with some of those same teammates, such as ’25 Dreyden (Drey) Garner and ’26 Quentyn “Q” DeMara, mean the most.
Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
I’ve played alongside some really good guys before they hit the high school scene, like ’24 QB Mike Hawkins Jr. (Frisco Emerson), ’25 DB Chuck McDonald (Mater Dei) and ’25 WR Marcus Harris (Mater Dei). ’24 Safety Peyton Woodyard is definitely the best I’ve played with. As far as playing against, there are some really good guys that I had on the opposite side of me. ’24 WR Dillion Gresham is that dude. No days off with him because he’ll make you look bad.
What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
I’m still an aspiring Division 1 student-athlete. So, what I tell myself is to keep working and stay focused. You have to work hard on and off of the field, maintaining good grades and putting in consistent work to be the best player you can be. Remember, God doesn’t make mistakes, so what is meant to be will be.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Dubai just looks insane and unreal. I would love to get out there and experience that culture.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I was 3 years old watching my big brother play and I knew it was something I wanted to do. So, at the age of 4 I was actually playing on his flag football team and was told by my dad to follow my brother and he’ll set up the blocks for me. I think that’s one of the reasons I’m so patient with the ball in my hand now. I’m still just that 4 year old playing the game I love and, although it’s not my brother blocking for me anymore, I can still visualize him doing it.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If you would’ve asked me this in January, I would have said Coach Prime. However, that dream has already come true as I was blessed to have met him during my visit to Colorado earlier this year. With that said, I am going to go with NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame and Heisman Trophy Winner, Charles Woodson. He is the only primary defensive player to win the Heisman and he did it as a defensive back. All of us DB’s are trying to be the next one to win it.
What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
Seeing LeBron surpass Kareem in being the all-time leader in points. For me to witness that history being made during my lifetime and being old enough that I’ll actually be able to remember it happening is truly a special moment for me being a fan of all sports.
