While some of his teammates have been playing international ball, Tyshawn Taylor has spent his summer in the city, playing first at the legendary Rucker Park, then the Dyckman Playground, both Harlem haunts for pros and college players alike.

"I always heard about it," the Nets rookie guard said. "Last year the park leagues were big because of the lockout. I knew it would be good competition, a good crowd. It’s something to do while I’m here for the summer, stay in shape, get some work in."

The numbers don't count as much as the experience. In fact, the other night, he focused on moving the ball and didn't even score. So, the combination of summer league and street ball have served him well, he says.

"My coaching staff loved me," he adds. "They think I’m going to get a lot better. It was really good for me to go out there and play well. I think I got off to the right start."

• Nets rookie enjoys trying hand on NYC streetball circuit - Joseph Staszewski - New York Post