“The Villain’s” Return… Heroic
The magic number in blackjack is, of course, 21. It’s a appropriate digit combination for Evan Turner… because he represents a massive jackpot for the Buckeyes.
His return to the lineup has produced the following results: 3 wins over teams currently or previously ranked in the top 25, a 20 point, 13 rebound, 8 assist game against N’Western, the Bucks back into the Top 25 rankings.
Coincidence? Duh.
But here’s where Turner makes the biggest difference in my mind… not in scoring or rebounding. Rather, he exudes a calm and confidence that flows into his teammates. Watch him Saturday at WVU for an example. When the Mountaineers fire that rifle indoors (still a safety hazard, IMO), Turner may not flinch. He handles the ball with skill and distributes to ALL his teammates with equal faith. That demeanor will best come to the forefront in tough road environments like Morganhole—er, I mean Morgantown—-and the rest of the Big Ten schedule.
Despite his time lost to his back injury this season, I still believe we’ll see Evan end up on numerous All-American ballots by season’s end. He’ll be on national TV enough through the final two months to gain the exposure needed. And the Bucks making a deep NCAA run?
Don’t bet against 21.
