The Ford-Ricci Formula: Why Tavius Ford & Briar Ricci Are One of Alberta’s Top Duos

Briar Ricci & Tavius Ford | 11th grade | Edmonton, AB | Harry Ainlay High School | Genesis Basketball

For many teams, finding two players who can build elite chemistry while still standing out as top-tier individual talents is difficult. For Tavius Ford and Briar Ricci, that balance is what makes them so dangerous. Years of playing together have created a connection that elevates both players. As they enter Grade 11, Briar and Tavius are shaping up to be one of the most intriguing duos in their 2028 class.

Having played together at a very young age, Tavius and Briar have continued to grow side by side at both the high school and club levels. Their development has already led them to compete on some of the biggest stages available to young Canadian talent. This past year, they represented Genesis Basketball in the EYBL Champions Division. A year prior, both earned selections to Team Alberta’s U15 program. Those experiences have only strengthened the trust, chemistry, and confidence they bring every time they step on the floor. 

While their chemistry grabs your attention, their individual games are just as impressive. 

At 5’11, Briar Ricci (C/O 2028) has developed into a versatile two-way guard whose competitiveness and relentless work ethic allows him to impact winning on both ends of the floor. Whether he's attacking the basket, making the extra pass, shooting quality shots, or taking on tough defensive assignments. Briar embraces whatever role his team needs. His selfless approach and commitment to improving, continues to make him one of the more complete guards in his class.

Tavius Ford, (C/O 2028) a 6’4 forward with a very high basketball IQ, shooting ability, and natural leadership. The forward has a great feel for the game, consistently finding open space and making smart decisions with the ball. Also, his ability to stretch the floor forces defences to respect his shot. Creating opportunities for both himself and his teammates. As he continues to improve his ability to get downhill, his offensive game will become even more dangerous.

With both players entering an important stage of their development, I caught up with Tavius and Briar to talk about their unique partnership, what they're focused on improving, and the goals they've set for the upcoming season.

Q&A with Tavius Ford and Briar Ricci

Matteo: You've played together at both the high school and club level. What makes your connection on the court so effective?

Briar: We've spent a lot of time playing together, so we've built a lot of trust. We understand each other's strengths and tendencies, which helps us communicate without always having to say anything. Playing together at both levels has made our chemistry stronger, and I think that shows during games.

Tavius: The fact that me and Briar have played together even before high school, since Mini Mites, means we know how each other play. We've been able to translate that onto different teams, and hopefully it leads to a positive outcome every time.

Matteo: What do you believe is the biggest strength of your game, and what separates you from other players in your class?

Briar: I think my biggest strengths are my work ethic, competitiveness, and willingness to do whatever the team needs. I try to make an impact on both ends of the floor, and I take pride in constantly trying to improve my game.

Tavius: I'd say one of my biggest strengths is my basketball IQ. I know where I need to be on the court to get open shots and layups. When my shot is falling, I'm able to create gravity, which opens things up for my teammates and myself.

Matteo: Heading into Grade 11, what's one area of your game you're focused on improving the most, and why?

Briar: I'm focused on becoming more consistent with my off hand and improving my overall decision-making. I think those are two areas that can help me become a more complete player and allow me to contribute even more to my team.

Tavius: The biggest thing for me is improving my handles and getting to the rim. I feel really confident in my shooting, and if I can consistently attack the basket, it'll make me much harder to guard.

Matteo: If a college coach or scout was watching you for the first time, what do you hope they notice about you as both a player and a person?

Briar: I hope they notice how hard I play and how much I care about my teammates. I want them to see someone who competes every possession, is coachable, and is willing to put in the work both on and off the court.

Tavius: I'd want them to notice my leadership. I want them to see someone who's helping teammates on and off the court, giving constructive feedback, and doing whatever I can to make the team better.

Matteo: What goals have you set for yourself this season, both individually and with your team?

Briar: Personally, I want to continue improving every aspect of my game and become a more complete player. As a team, our goal is to compete at a high level, win as many games as possible, and build a strong culture together.

Tavius: We're going to be a younger team this year, but we still want to compete with the top schools and make a deep run. Personally, I want to learn from the older returners while continuing to grow as a leader for the younger guys.

Matteo: What role has the other person played in helping you become the player you are today?

Briar: Tavius has played a huge role in my development. He's pushed me to work harder, improve my skills, and become a better teammate and leader. Having someone who believes in you and challenges you every day has made a big difference in my growth as a player.

Tavius: Briar has always been one of my favourite people to play with. He's obviously a very talented player, which helps me improve defensively in practice. He also always finds me when I'm open, giving me great opportunities to knock down shots while trusting me to finish the play.

Final Thoughts

The Ford-Ricci Formula is built for success. With both players entering Grade 11 and continuing to refine different aspects of their games, this partnership is only beginning to reach its potential. As the 2028 class continues to develop, don't be surprised if the names Tavius Ford and Briar Ricci continue to be mentioned together for all the right reasons.