UNC transfer guard Kyan Evans revealed his honest take on NBA superstar Steph Curry during his first media session as a Tar Heel. He shared how his basketball fandom evolved from a loyalty-based dislike to a genuine appreciation for individual greatness.
Kyan Evans Opens Up About His NBA Favorites and Curry Evolution
In Inside Carolina’s new video, North Carolina guard Evans had a conversation with reporters on Wednesday afternoon for the first time as a Tar Heel. During the session, Evans was asked about which players he idolized growing up and whether he patterns his game after anyone specific.
“I mean, I’ve always been a really big LeBron guy. And then, um, you know, I didn’t like Curry back in the day when he used to beat LeBron. But ever since, uh, you know, I watched the Olympics kind of came around, and then when he did what he did, I really started to um, just realize how great he is too as a guard,” Evans said.
His admission shows how team loyalty initially clouded his judgment of individual talent.
Being immensely loyal to LeBron James, Evans could not see how good Curry was while the Golden State Warriors won with LeBron’s teams in their championship matches. Yet, seeing Curry overpower for Team USA at the Olympics was the turning point for Evans to distinguish an athlete’s supreme performance from team rivalries.
Evans also mentioned other NBA players he admires, noting that “there’s other guards that I like like Chris Paul,” and explaining that he watches “a lot of basketball and enjoy people for what they’re doing now.”
The 6-foot-2 junior from Kansas City has some impressive numbers supporting Chapel Hill.
Read More: Kyan Evans Shares Honest Take on UNC Teammate Caleb Wilson’s Viral Jab at Rivals Duke and NC State
Evans started all 36 games for the Rams, averaging 10.6 points, 3.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds while shooting an excellent 44.6 percent from three-point range. He shone the most in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, putting up 23 points and making six three-pointers in a win that was not expected against Memphis.
Evans’ journey to UNC began when he gained confidence midway through his season at Colorado State. He noted that a game against Nevada was his turning point, saying, “That was kind of my game where I was like all right I’m I’m here and and I can do this”. From there, the Rams went on a strong run, finishing with a Mountain West Championship.
Evans is an experienced player who will be a great help to UNC’s young backcourt. He has played in high-pressure situations such as the NCAA Tournament.
