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SALT LAKE CITY - If you score 43 points against the No. 4 team in the country, people are bound to notice. But if you have scored more than 40 in three of your last four games and lead the NCAA in points per game, you'll be considered "the best scorer in the world".
"As soon as he gets on the court (he's in range)."
While that last statement by Kevin Durant may be a little bit of an exaggeration, Jimmer Fredette is generating a lot of publicity for his recent performance.
I recently talked with Deron Williams, point guard of the Utah Jazz, about the latest national media sensation.
Just how good is Jimmer?
"He's a pretty good player," Deron said with obvious understatement. "I've watched him a lot the last week or two."
"When Ronnie Price told us about (Fredette) at the beginning of the season, everybody was a little reluctant - but he's got everybody's attention now."
While Jimmer has been a solid performer for the Cougars, leading them to a 20-1 record this season, its his play as of late that is drawing attention.
"When Ronnie Price told us about (Fredette) at the beginning of the season, everybody was a little reluctant - but he's got everybody's attention now."
When I asked Deron what aspects of Jimmer's game he really likes, he said, "He just can play. There are no real weaknesses in his game. He's putting his team on his back, carrying them. Take him off that team and I don't think they're anywhere near as good as they are."
Need a deep three-pointer? Jimmer, who doesn't seem afraid to launch one up from 30-feet, obviously doesn't have a range issue and D-Will agrees.
"As soon as he gets on the court (he's in range)."
