Tyreke Evans: Sacramento Kings PG Is NBA's Newest Iron Man
Tyreke Evans turned the Sacramento Kings around in a hurry. Last year, Evans was named the NBA’s Rookie of the Year. With his big, dominant frame, Evans presents a major mismatch for most point guards. He has fantastic ball handling skills, court vision and speed to go along with his bruising build.
Evans simply eats most point guards alive, similar to Deron Williams now and Chauncey Billups in his prime.
Although he missed 10 games last season, Evans averaged 20.1 points, 1.5 steals, 5.3 rebounds, 3.0 turnovers and 5.8 assists per game.
This season, Evans is averaging 17.7 points, 1.5 steals, 5.0 rebounds, 3.5 turnovers and 5.6 assists per game.
His lack of a sophomore slump is quite remarkable considering everything he has been through in just six weeks of the NBA season.
Evans battled numerous injuries to open the year, yet has not missed a single game. His Kings even started the season winning three of their first four games. Despite his team going 2-13 in their past 15 games, Evans continues to show his teammates that he is truly their fearless leader.
The list of injuries Evans has dealt with include two sore ankles, a bruised knee suffered late last week, a lingering case of plantar fasciitis and just for kicks to pile on the annoyance, the flu.
Somehow, someway though, Evans suits up every night. He may miss practice time, but once the lights are on shining bright, Evans is out there leading his teammates into battle. He’ll leave the game, put some ice on an injury and come right back out as soon as possible.
Evans is also a student of the game. He’s recently been watching film of his jump shot. He’s in the process of critiquing himself in order to better his game. If only most players were as dedicated to their craft as Evans is becoming. While trying to stay healthy, Evans is even more focused on improving his game to bring Sacramento a winning team.
This is the determination and leadership the Kings have been searching for. Evans is the franchise-changing player Sacramento has been waiting for.
In his last game against the scorching hot Dallas Mavericks, Evans almost led the team to victory, falling 105-103. He turned in a great performance, with 25 points, eight assists and five rebounds with one steal.
Despite the ailing injuries, Evans is out there battling with his teammates. Evans is attempting to change the culture of a city that is used to losing. He is giving his all for Sacramento and its fans, which is all anybody could ask from the young superstar.
