Why Gordon Hayward Is The NBA's Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow had perhaps the greatest college football career in history. However, his passing accuracy and awkward throwing motion made him a mediocre, at best, NFL prospect.

If it weren't for his intangibles and his leadership, Tebow probably wouldn't have been drafted.

The success that he experienced at Florida made him a first rounder.

Meanwhile, Gordon Hayward is a 6'8'' 200 pound small forward who led the Butler Bulldogs from Indianapolis, Indiana to the first Final Four in school history.

I realize that he has a decent long range jump shot,  great court awareness, and smarts, but it's the intangibles that Hayward showcased in their Final Four run that made him such a hot NBA prospect.

Drafted ninth overall by the Utah Jazz in the draft, Hayward comes to the NBA without great speed or athleticism.

Tim Tebow, drafted 25th overall by the Denver Broncos, comes to the NFL with a lot of throwing problems. People question if he even has the talent to ever start in the league.

Like the Broncos for Tebow, the Jazz may be a perfect fit for Hayward.

With Williams running the point, and Boozer down low (assuming Boozer returns to Utah), Hayward has the chance to get a lot of open jumpers and chances to get an easy lane to the basket.

Working with Deron Williams could be one of the greatest presents he has ever received. A pass-first point guard,  Williams will create a lot of chances for Butler's former star.

However, it's the defense that many people seemed to be concerned about. Matched up with an athletic wing player, chances are they are in for a great night.

If Andrei Kirilenko returns to form, though, he could be a great defensive help to Hayward.

So why did I compare Tebow and Hayward?

Sure, the athletic ability is there for both of them, but the hype took over a little bit.

Based on talent alone, Hayward's a late first round pick to early second. Tebow could have not even been drafted.

However, the way that they led their teams and found ways to win brought them both great success in college.

Only time will tell if that translates to the pros.

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