BYU in the NBA: Jimmer starts strong

Currently there are two former Cougars playing in the NBA, Jimmer Fredette and Brandon Davies.  Jimmer is playing for the New Orleans Pelicans and Davies is playing for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Jimmer made his preseason debut Saturday, October 4 against the Miami Heat.  He scored 17 points to lead the Pelicans in scoring while playing 30 minutes.  Jimmer looks like he will be the primary back up to starting point guard Jrue Holiday.  This will give him the opportunity to have a role and finally show that he can be a role player in the NBA.  His ability to shoot will keep him on NBA rosters as long as he is given the opportunity to show that his .401 3 point percentage is not a fluke.  Last season he averaged 5.6 points per game in 49 games while playing 14 minutes per game.

Brandon Davies is currently one of seven power forwards on the roster for the Sixers.  The other players are Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Arnette Moultrie, Nerlens Noel, Ronald Roberts, JaKarr Sampson, and Jarvis Vanardo.  Noel, who was the number 6 pick in last year's draft, and Mbah a Moute will see the bulk of the minutes at power forward this year.  Last season, Brandon played in 51 games averaging 2.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in 11 minutes per game.  Hopefully, Davies plays well enough to make the team as a third power forward that can provide energy, rebounding, and defense in spot minutes for the rebuilding Sixers.

There are also multiple Cougars playing overseas.  Trent Plaisted is currently listed as the back up power forward for Limoges in France.  Rafael Araujo is listed as a back up center for E.C. Pinhheiros/Sky in Brazil.  Lee Cummard is the starting small forward for Okapi Aalstar in Belgium.  He scored 2 points in the season debut.  Jonathan Tavernari is the starting shooting guard for Orsi Derthona in Italy.  Charles Abouo currently is not on a roster, but is still listed as an active player.

Good luck to all the former Cougars.  Stay healthy and have great seasons.