Jevon Carter regarded highly by NBA during draft
After 30 players were selected in the first round of last week’s NBA draft, the second round began.
If and when all the first-round draftees sign their contracts, they will become rich men because those contracts are guaranteed.
None of the second-rounders will receive a guaranteed contract, but those like former West Virginia University guard Jevon Carter are highly valued by their prospective new employers.
Carter was taken as the 32nd player overall, or the second athlete selected in the second round. He went to the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that failed to qualify for the league playoffs in the season, just completed when the Golden State Warriors wound up as the league champions.
Valued for his work ethic more than any other basketball asset, Carter also had become known for his individual defensive skills, untiring practice habits and ability to make perimeter jump shots in the increasingly outside-oriented league.
Three-point field goals have become more and more valuable to all 30 NBA franchises, 29 of which have examined the reasons why Golden State has become the World Champion in several recent seasons.
Even though he wasn’t a first-round selection, Carter will be given every opportunity to make the Memphis roster for the 2018 to 2019 season, which is 82 games long and often places a premium on athletes who can perform well in three games in five nights or four consecutive games on the road.
Carter appeared indefatigable in WVU’s season, a season where the Mountaineers applied full court pressure and attempted to wear down the resolve and the energy of any opponent.
There are no teams in the NBA that employ a full court pressure defense, but there are some that will use some form of pressure in the last minute of some quarters.
Carter has been healthy during his years in Morgantown. And the rigors of the NBA place a premium on players staying healthy and being available.
There were only 31 players selected ahead of Carter. He is regarded as a likely talent, who will readily accept coaching and can improve as he adjusts to the changes in style of play and the much longer schedule.
Carter would have to sustain an injury to miss occupying a place on the Memphis active roster for the 2018 to 2019 season.