:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59190813/IMG_20180328_081454.0.jpg)
The thought.
In this world there are standards by which all things are measured. These standards define every aspect of our lives and rarely change. Yet, once in a while something, or someone comes along and redefines that standard, changing the way the world is perceived forever.
In four years Keenan Evans redefined what it means to be a leader, a playmaker and above all, a Red Raider. From a numbers standpoint Evans was good. He finished his career with 1571 total points which averages out to 12 per game. He shot 36 percent from beyond the arc and recorded 342 assists.
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10542833/usa_today_10733877.jpg)
As a player, his influence is irreplaceable. Evans started his career during one of the most tumultuous periods for Red Raider basketball as one of Tubby Smith’s early recruits and was instrumental in helping to turn this program around after it had been in a state of turmoil since Bob Knight retired.
So the question is, what are we even waiting for?
The take
I understand that The NCAA tournament hasn’t even ended and the team just barely got off the plane a couple days ago, but we’ve waited long enough. It’s time to retire #12 to the rafters.
I’m sure there’s a protocol for this sort of thing and a certain timeline that has to pass. Maybe you want to see how a player does in the pros first before making the decision to retire a jersey number, but I think we’ve seen more than enough.
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10542847/usa_today_10680521.jpg)
Evans was not the biggest, strongest, or fastest, but he gave everything he had to this team and university. Whether it was making the shot when it counted most, or playing through the tournament with a broken toe that no one else knew about. Evans redefined what it means to be a Red Raider and therefore changed the standard forever.
I think I speak for all of Red Raider nation when I say that come December, I hope to see two banners go up in the United Supermarkets Arena. One to commemorate this team’s historic run to the Elite Eight, and of course, one for number 12.
What's your take?