Versatility has always been valued in the NBA but in the modern era, it’s more important than ever. Players with more simplistic games, such as three-point specialists and traditional rim-runners, still have a role to play. Nonetheless, teams have begun to see multi-faceted players as a necessity more than a luxury.
That’s what makes the emergence of Brooklyn Nets forward Tosan Evbuomwan so fascinating. The 23-year-old went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft cycle. Given his background, which was covered in detail by USA Today’s Tom Schad, it was to be expected.
Nets Uncover Hidden Gem With Tosan Evbuomwan
Evbuomwan’s father, Isaac, used to play basketball in Nigeria. As a result, he was introduced to the game early in life. However, he didn’t begin playing organized basketball until he was 14, preferring soccer.
Soon enough though, he was representing Great Britain in the U-18 FIBA European Championships. As the son of a doctor, it probably shouldn’t be surprising that he decided to enroll at Princeton, an Ivy League school. Yet, the atmosphere was fitting for his personality, poise, and maturity. In fact, when the Ivy League cancelled their 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Evbuomwan decided to use that time to practice with a professional team.
With that being said, the Tigers have only produced 11 NBA players. So, despite leaving Princeton as one of their most decorated talents, he was already facing an uphill battle. Because Ivy League players tend to lack the talent level and physical tools NBA teams are looking for, they’re almost automatically overlooked. Fortunately for Evbuomwan, he’s the opposite of what the league’s franchises have come to expect, with one caveat.
At 6-foot-7 and 217 pounds, he’s as intelligent as he is skilled.
Not Your Average Smart Guy
Since signing a two-way contract with the Nets on Jan. 1, Evbuomwan has been a revelation in Brooklyn. In 14 games. he’s averaged 9.9 points in 24.4 minutes per game, shooting 45.0 percent from the field. He’s scored in double-figures in six games, with his season-high (22 points) coming against the Utah Jazz on Jan. 12. Capable of getting it done from all three levels, he’s at his best in the paint due to his touch and ability to get to his spots.
His numbers don’t reflect it, as he’s averaging 1.4 assists per game. However, this is partially due to the Nets’ overall talent deficiency, as he’s averaging 3.0 potential assists per game. In any case, he’s one of the most heady playmakers on the team, finding teammates at the rim or beyond the arc. Furthermore, because he’s capable of handling the ball, he doesn’t have to rely on post-ups or short rolls. He can make live passes off-the-dribble as well.
Newest net Tosan Evbuomwan with great defense then the block on Ben Sheppard and blocks his shot pic.twitter.com/ThIULsdLRB
— Nets Film Room (@NetsFilm) January 7, 2025
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Add to that his multi-positional defense and he’s a player who could have a long career. His three-point percentage (.316) could certainly stand to improve. Nevertheless, he’s already quite advanced as a player relative to his age and experience.
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