Sunday, January 6, 2008

Rudy Gay: Next in Line

TheDay.com (Connecticut) had an article this morning touting the fact that they believe that Rudy Gay is the "Next in Line" of the ex-UConn players headed to stardom. Far be it from me to disagree with that assessment either.


If Gay, 21, continues on his path, it may be only a few years before he joins (Ray) Allen, a seven-time All-Star in his 12th professional season, as another former Husky to reach elite status in the NBA.
Gay, a smooth 6-foot-8 forward, is in the midst of a breakout second season, averaging a team-best 19.3 points and 5.5 rebounds while starting all 32 games for the Memphis Grizzlies. After a slow start Friday, he finished with 21 points and five rebounds, although Allen's Celtics won, 100-96, at TD Banknorth Garden.


The article follows Rudy from his lowered draft status due to concerns about his effort and passion towards the game to his current rise towards stardom. They also provide quite a few quotes from fellow UConn alum Ray Allen, who has been impressed with how much Rudy has progressed in such a short time period.

“It has to be just his ability to perform consistently,” Allen said when asked what's the difference in Gay's game. “He's always been a great athletic player. It seems like he's starting to develop professional habits.
“He's shooting the ball. He just seems he's confident in his moves. Before he would be just all over the place. Now it seems he's locking down his offense a lot more. ... He's definitely getting better.”


As always, it is great to see a Grizzlies player be recognized for how well they are doing. This was a great piece that I recommend everyone checking out in full.

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