The Rise of Gordon Hayward: From Underrated to NBA All-Star
Gordon Hayward was born on March 23, 1990, in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a kid, he enjoyed playing basketball, and it was clear to everyone that he had a natural talent for the sport. Hayward grew up playing for Brownsburg High School, where he led the team to the state championship in 2008. However, his success did not stop there. He went to play for Butler University and rose to become a talent worth reckoning in the NBA. In this post, we will explore the rise of Gordon Hayward and his journey to becoming an NBA All-Star.
From High School to College
Hayward caught the attention of recruiters during his high school years because of his impressive performance on the basketball court. He led the team to the state championship in his senior year, and recruiters began to notice him. Butler University offered him a scholarship to play for their team.
Hayward played three seasons at Butler, and his stats improved year after year. He led the team in scoring during his final season and became a key player in the team’s success. Hayward declared for the NBA draft in 2010 and was selected ninth overall by the Utah Jazz.
The Early Years in the NBA
In his first two seasons with the Jazz, Hayward struggled to find his footing in the NBA. He played limited minutes and was often relegated to a bench role. However, he continued to work hard and improve his game.
In the 2012-2013 season, Hayward was given a more significant role in the team’s offense, and he responded by averaging 14.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. His hard work had begun to pay off, and he was quickly becoming a valuable asset to the Jazz.
The Move to Boston
In 2017, Hayward was signed by the Boston Celtics to a four-year contract worth $128 million. This move was a significant moment in his career as it marked his transition from a good player to a great one.
Unfortunately, tragedy struck before Hayward could play his first game for the Celtics. During his debut game, he suffered a gruesome injury that left him with a dislocated ankle and a broken tibia. This injury kept him out for the rest of the season, and it was unclear whether he would ever be able to regain his form.
Returning to Form
Hayward spent the next year rehabilitating and working on his game. He returned to the Celtics’ lineup in the 2018-2019 season, but he struggled to find his form. However, he continued to work hard, and his efforts began to pay off in the 2019-2020 season.
In that season, Hayward played some of the best basketball of his career. He averaged 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 50.2% from the field and 38.3% from three-point range. He was named an NBA All-Star for the first time in his career, and he helped the Celtics make it to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Current Status
Hayward’s success in the 2019-2020 season has cemented his status as one of the NBA’s elite players. He is still an important player for the Celtics, and he continues to work hard to improve his game.
FAQs
1. What team did Gordon Hayward play for during college?
Gordon Hayward played for Butler University during college.
2. When was Gordon Hayward drafted into the NBA?
Gordon Hayward was drafted into the NBA in 2010.
3. What team did Gordon Hayward play for before he was signed by the Boston Celtics?
Gordon Hayward played for the Utah Jazz before he was signed by the Boston Celtics.
4. When did Hayward suffer his injury?
Hayward suffered his horrific injury during his debut game for Boston Celtics.
5. When was Hayward named an NBA All-Star?
Hayward was named an NBA All-Star for the first time in his career during the 2019-2020 season.
6. What are Hayward’s career averages?
Hayward’s career averages are 15.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
7. What position does Gordon Hayward play?
Gordon Hayward is a small forward in the NBA.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gordon Hayward’s rise from an underrated player to an NBA All-Star is an inspiring story that illustrates the importance of hard work and perseverance. He has overcome obstacles and continued to improve his game, and his efforts have paid off in the form of individual accolades and team success. Hayward serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, and his story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work.