PULLMAN, WA- From Sonoma State to Washington State, forward Jaylen Wells has made an impressive name for himself in Pullman.
His journey to get to the power five level, however, didn't come easy.
It all started in Northern California. The Sacramento native shined at the division two level. He led the league in scoring, and was also named the conference player of the year.
"My freshmen year, I was more of a driver. Sophomore year, I started to shoot more. I think my three point percentage went up by 12 percent. This year, I went to more of a shooter and I turned into more of a midrange," Wells said.
His talents grabbed the attention of Washington State. Once he took his official visit, he knew it was the perfect fit.
"Washington State, as soon as they reached out to me it felt right. Coach Wayne, he's also from Sacramento, so we had that connection there. It just kind of of felt like home."
Whether it's in practice or in the games, Wells continues to master his jump shot. He learned the technique from a coach back home.
"My shooting coach down in Sacramento, Danielle Viglione. She has records for the University of Texas, and I think it's a little different because she's a woman. Not many people who are guys are working with a girl to work on their shots."
The junior's dedication has payed off. As a result, the WSU starter has scored in double figures in 13 consecutive games.
"Honestly, I think most of the confidence comes from my teammates. Every time I shoot the ball they say shoot it again. Even if I miss, they're happy with me shooting the ball."
"I love to score, but I could go zero points and have 10 rebounds, and I'll be happy if we win."
WSU continues to keep on winning. They're now ranked in the top 25 poll for the first time since 2008. The Cougs are also projected to make the NCAA tournament.
"Getting all these accolades and attention wasn't something we probably saw in the start of the season. I think we deserve it, we've been putting in the work and we're a way different team than we were the first game."
Despite all the success, WSU continues to have a chip on their shoulder. Wells is also no stranger in being the underdog.
"Coming into high school, I was 5 foot 8, so I wasn't really the best. JV, I was probably 16th man."
"I grew to 6 foot 6, I was playing point guard averaging 30 points and 8 rebounds. Even averaging all those points and rebounds, you'd think you be recruited. I went division two, didn't have any division one's reaching out. I'm a person that's like if you can play, they're going to find you."
WSU certainly found the right player. He's now competing on the biggest stage in college basketball. Wells takes every opportunity he can to soak in the moment.
"I usually have these moments randomly where I'm like wow, I got to this point. Obviously a lot more t o go in my career, but a lot of moments where I'm just proud of myself."
His message to younger players who may be undersized or under recruited is to just believe in yourself, and to never get discouraged in your career.