Memphis guard Tyreke Evans has been selected Freshman of the Year by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association.
The 6-foot-6 Evans, MVP of last year’s McDonald’s All-American Game, has thrived since Memphis coach John Calipari moved him to point guard from the wing following a loss to Syracuse that dropped the Tigers to 6-3.
The Tigers have won 27 straight heading into a West Regional semifinal Thursday with Missouri.
During the first nine games, Evans averaged 14.8 points and 3.5 assists while looking tentative. Since then, he’s averaged 17.2 points and 5.1 assists. He leads Memphis in scoring (16.6), steals (2.0) and assists (3.9).
“I’m not a guy who really says too much,” Evans told the Kansas City Star of the move. “[Calipari] figured it out. He knew what type of player I was with the ball in my hands. I can drive the ball, I can shoot the ball. I fit in perfect here.”
SETH CURRY TRANSFERRING
Liberty guard Seth Curry, the brother of Stephen Curry, announced he will transfer.“Today I am announcing that I will not be returning to Liberty for my sophomore year,” he said in a statement. “This is a difficult decision that I have reached after close consultation with my family and others close to me, and it is based on my desire to develop as an athlete to the fullest of my potential and take advantage of new opportunities that may be available to me in a higher rated conference.”
Liberty coach Ritchie McKay was understandably disappointed.“There is a level of disappointment with Seth’s decision,” commented McKay. “I always have a vested interest in God’s will or purpose for the lives of the people we come in contact with. Seth has meant a lot to our basketball program and has added value to our campus. I have nothing but great respect for the Curry family and we wish them success in all their future pursuits.
“I don’t fault Seth for his decision to pursue a school in a higher profile conference, at the same time I am really excited with what God is doing in our program and I know Liberty basketball will continue to prosper.”
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(Photos courtesy Kansas City Star & Liberty University)
