Evan Gilyard equals ABL's 3-point record: A gift next to Saigon Heat's victory
During the entire 11th ABL season this year, many individuals shined to bring in impressive statistics. But there was no better performance than what Evan Gilyard, the foreign defender of Saigon Heat, just showed at the Nguyen Du Stadium.
Driven to the foot and forced to win to prolong the series finals, Gilyard exploded with incredible 41 points (13-26 FG, 10-17 3PT) along with 5 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals.
He only had one turnover in nearly 39 minutes on the pitch, greatly contributing to Saigon Heat's 88-70 victory over Hong Kong Eastern. This performance from Evan Gilyard put him in ABL history in his first professional season.
Not only equaling the overall record of the tournament, Gilyard also monopolized the record for the number of 3-pointers at the ABL Playoffs and specifically the ABL Finals series of finals.
When asked about this special achievement, the foreign soldier of Saigon Heat said that setting a record is special, but it will not be as important as winning to equalize the series score.
“Records or personal achievements are always a privilege that I cherish very much. However, it will never be compared with the feeling of winning, "said the defender in 1998.
"I always try to win every game and if in the process I set a record or have some impressive stats, it will be an attached bonus that makes me feel better."
Talking more about how to enter the game and the change compared to Game 1 when the Heat fell to Hong Kong Eastern, Gilyard said that Game 2 is where the "Mr 30" team played more cohesively, with more true strength and performance. typical image of Saigon Heat.
“Basketball is inherently a game of long points. There are times when your opponent breaks through, but there will come a time when you have a chance to get ahead. Today we showed how tough and united the Heat is,” Evan told Webthethao.
“The team kept their spirits up throughout the match, didn't give up and trusted each other. The defense played extremely hard today to help us withstand their attacks (Hong Kong Eastern - PV).
For my part, I felt good and entered the game with high determination. As more shots went into the basket, I kept that excitement for the rest of the game and I'm glad it helped the team win."
Evan Gilyard exploded with 41 points, but that was not enough for Saigon Heat to break through the clinging and stubborn Hong Kong Eastern. It was not until the beginning of the fourth half when coach Matt Van Pelt's teachers and students had a series of 14-0 points, that the game was really under control.
It is noteworthy that in this shake, Gilyard did not play the hero but had 5 different Heat players "shooting". Besides the 3 points of Evan, Phu Vinh (2 points) Hassan Thomas (3 points), Jairus Holder (4 points) and Jeremy Combs (2 points) both contributed.
“I think this is something special and also the key to our victory. The opponent's defense can focus on me but there are still other teammates who can shine.
I'm glad for this, because there are teammates like that. I am very grateful that they are always there for me, supporting me and supporting each other,” added Saigon Heat's PG.
Equalizing the ABL Finals 2023 series at Game 2, Saigon Heat had a precious rest day after having to work with 5 matches in 8 days.
Coach Matt Van Pelt's teachers and students will return to the field at Game 3, which is also the decisive match for the 11th season ABL championship between them and Hong Kong Eastern Club. The match takes place at 19:30 on Tuesday, March 14 at Nguyen Du Gymnasium.
