Turner earns nickname “The Villain”
His nickname is “the villain.“ At least that’s the one Mark Titus has given Evan Turner, and truth is… he’s nailed it. I’ve come to know ET as an interesting character. By interesting, I think I mean… odd.
For example, as he’s leaving the OSU-Iowa press conference he’s half-heartedly asked about his Super Bowl pick and he says “Buckeyes… Tressel for President.“ O…k. I don’t get it either, but I’m sure the ball coach will be thrilled to have Turner’s support.
And here’s a fun game—-watch Turner after made baskets for varying facial expressions. He smiles, snarles, gribes, laughs—-dude’s all over the court, emotionally speaking. When an Iowa player fouled Turner while he was on his way to the basket Sunday, Turner let loose with a medley of expletives, not really directed at anyone. Referee Ed Valentine wasted no time in telling Turner to “zip it.“
Titus has talked freely about how odd his teammate is on court and off. He’s a twitter freak and before Sunday’s game Turner wrote, “Be afraid… very afraid.“ He sometimes rolls his eyes at media questions that seem relevant or gives a little extra hand check or shove.
And he’s probably the best player in America.
Turner’s ability to control a basketball game is just about unrivaled in the college game. Because he plays the point, he sets the tempo by his driving and dishing. William Buford and Jon Diebler see the most benefit, as Turner draws double teams in the lane, leaving them unguarded for threes. Lazy on defense? Not even close. His long arms make it a hassle just to get pass around him. I’m almost certain he’ll turn pro after the season, and he truly should. He’s a remarkable talent and amazing to watch.
He’s hooked up a little bit different, and maybe that’s why Evan’s Almighty.
