Lance Stephenson has been in the national spotlight since he was in the 8th Grade. Since being dubbed “Born Ready” Stephenson was expected to take the basketball world by storm at a young age.
After winning four PSAL titles at Lincoln High School and being one of the top players in the country it appeared that Stephenson was on his way to stardom.
Stephenson surprisingly enrolled at the University of Cincinnati where he was Big East Rookie of the Year, but despite a successful year he still didn’t live up to the expectations that people placed on him.
After being selected in the 2nd round of the NBA Draft in 2010 it was unknown what role Stephenson would have in Indiana. Larry Bird who has a great eye for talent took a chance on Stephenson, and now the move is paying dividends. Stephenson has improved in each season. Once labeled as a bust, Stephenson is proving that he belongs in the NBA.
Lance Stephenson has arguably been the second best player on the Indiana Pacers this season. Stephenson is the NBA leader in triple doubles with three, and averages 13.4 ppg, 5.1apg, and 6.7 rpg. The numbers don’t blow you away, but when you see the Pacers play you know that they wouldn’t be the top team in the East without Stephenson’s production.
All-Star swing man Paul George gets all of the credit, and rightfully so but his running mate on the wing is the engine that makes the Pacers go.
I believe Stephenson should be an All-Star due to his exciting style of play and his production on the court.
If Stephenson is selected as an All-Star it gives him leverage this summer when he could command a hefty contract during free agency.
The evolution of Lance Stephenson has been a sight to see. It may have taken some time, but he is proving that he is “Born Ready”, and able to hold his own with the best of the best in the NBA.
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