A flash of white and blue hovers above the air, rising above an unsuspecting defender, and launches a ball over an ineffective defensive plan once again as the net splashes seconds later complimented by the piercing screams of a fan base so intertwined with the culture of Provo. His battle cry is heard by the devoted fans residing in the top tiers of the Marriott Center, an upcoming arena filled to the the brim with passion and intimidation to all those who don't adorn themselves with BYU pride. A small town hero reignites a basketball community, which has been laid unmoved in dormancy for decades, with shots heaved at any spot on the floor and scoring drives with nearly the entire opposing effort resting upon his back through each decisive movement.With his departure, a community shifts their gaze towards a bleak future and an uncertain journey through uncharted territory with unproven competitors.
Jimmer Fredette became a national phenomenon with his unbelievable range and humility, which shone every time he was interviewed or dissected by analysts all over the nation. His compelling scoring average of 28.9 points-per-game, over 37 games, and adoration for the long ball, raising on a dime and launching the ball into the net with ease, created the opportunity to exceed such point totals of 40 or more points on the biggest stages. He also averaged a solid 3.4 rebounds per game, as well as 4.3 assists per game. Fredette carried an experienced and prepared team into the NCAA tournament for the second straight year with expectations of a deeper and more successful run than the previous year.
Struggling with no low post threat offensively or defensively due to the suspension of Brandon Davies, Jimmer exploded in prime time and lifted his team to the Sweet 16, for the first time in 30 years, where they lost to the overpowering and athletic Florida Gators team. By the end, Jimmer Fredette became a national superstar and rewrote the record books at BYU with his undeniable offensive prowess. These few considerations made it impossible to oppose the reasoning of the numerous national accolades he received at the end of his historical career. His achievements propose that he has surpassed Danny Ainge as the best basketball player in BYU's history.
As Jimmer enters into this year's NBA draft, he is projected to be a top 15 pick. Analysts suggest that he'll be selected at number 7 by the Sacramento Kings or be selected by familiar faces at number 12 by the Utah Jazz to satisfy the local fan base. Fredette is undeniably an amazing shooter, but he can also score by putting the ball on the floor and use his strength and balance to finish under the rim with contact. Defenders are worried about his shot, but they should always stay on their toes because Jimmer's capacity to keep it on the ground and score is also a hidden strength of his game.
Fredette's strengths are just as evident as his weaknesses. NBA coaches and scouts question his athleticism at the professional level on both sides of the floor. Can a guard his size contend with greater athletes in the pros? It will take some time, but I believe Jimmer will be able to defend NBA point guards as he gets use to the athleticism and speed of the game. If he is conditioned, then he'll adapt and play at a high level for the 82 game regular-season and possibly make an appearance in next year's play-offs.
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