Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Carter Evans

It's been a scoring spree to remember for Carter Evans. Across his last four games, the junior forward has averaged 24.2 points per game for Riverview boys basketball. That stretch includes a career-high 28 on 10-for-14 shooting Jan. 6 in a 66-59 victory over Venice. The Rams stand at 11-6, as of Jan. 12, and Evans has posted 16.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game this season. Evans is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start playing basketball?

I started playing basketball in late, late ninth grade. And I didn't play (in a game) during ninth grade at all. I just started touching the ball, getting shots up. But my sophomore year, I knew I had to grind to get a varsity spot. I was on JV most of my (sophomore) year, but for the last two months, I was on varsity. Junior year is still loading.

After all these years, why have you stuck with the sport?

My mom loves basketball. If I quit right now, I don't know what she would do. She might kick me out.

What's been the highlight of your career so far and why was it so memorable?

It's probably when I scored 28 (points) on Venice. When I came home, it felt like I was a different dude. But my mom said, "You've still got to work on some things."

How would you describe your style of play to someone who hasn't seen you in action before?

I'm like a slasher. I don't really shoot that much, but (I get) free throws. I'm going to go in and get a foul, and if they don't foul me, I'm going to get a bucket — every single time.

What are your goals for your junior season with Riverview?

I'm definitely trying to average more, especially rebounds. But (I'm) also trying to become a better person.

How have you found your stride as a scorer in these last few games?

I'm more confident and driving (into the paint) a lot. Coach (Jeff Harris) really, really believes in me with that ball. Just driving in and getting buckets.

When you're not playing basketball, how do you spend your free time?

Watching NBA players, like my idols Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. 

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would you meet and why?

Giannis. I just like how he uses his length.

What's something unique about you that not many people know?

I'm a mama's boy.

If you could go anywhere in the world for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

The Bahamas, so that I could enjoy the beaches.

What song or artist gets you in the zone before a game?

It's got to be YoungBoy Never Broke Again.

Finish this sentence. Carter Evans is...

The best.