Education
Thornton attended in Washington, District of Columbia where he averaged 14.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game as a senior while maintaining a Grade Point Average over 3.3. He also lettered four times, twice named team Most Valuable Player. He holds the school record for career wins. Thornton was named Most Valuable Player of the Gonzaga District of Columbia Classic and the Hoopball Classic.
Tyler made the all-tournament teams at the Iolani Classic and Alhambra Invitational.
In his senior year he was named to two all-conference teams and the Gonzaga Coaches award in 2008. Named District of Columbia Sports Fan Freshman of the Year and Gonzaga Mr.
Assist award in his first season on varsity. He also played Amateur Athletic Union basketball on the District of Columbia Assault with his Duke Blue Devil teammate Josh Hairston.