The Pacers 2009 1st-round draft pick got off to a slow start last season. Tyler Hansbrough missed 53 games in his rookie season, aggravated by a shin injury and an inner-ear infection.
“I’m just starting to get in shape a little bit. I had been out for months with injuries, so it’s going to take a while. I didn’t have really a training camp. Just more experience and more playing time combined, it’s all going to help.”
The 6-9, 250lbs power forward has given new life to the Indiana Pacers who are currently eighth spot in the Eastern Conference. That’s the final playoff spot with Charlotte a half-game back.
Many questioned the Pacers’ decision to draft Hansbrough that high and instead of a desperately needed point guard. The first year was certainly a disappointment, but the last three months Tyler has thrived.
This month, he is averaging 20.3 points, 7.1 rebounds a game shooting 51.9 percent in 32 minutes of action. All are career highs and all will continue to rise.
Hansbrough is relishing his role with the team. There’s a direct correlation between his play and the departure of former head coach Jim O’Brien who was fired January 30th. Tyler, with a grin on his face, discussed the change.
“The coaching impact has been really good for me. It’s given me the opportunity to get on the floor get to show some things I can do. Also, it’s a more clear message. In the past, you didn’t know what to expect.”
Already this week, Tyler has had two career nights. After scoring 29 points in the Pacers Sunday win at New York, he followed that up with 30 points Tuesday once again against the Knicks at home. On a back-to-back Wednesday, he still finished with a double-double at Boston with 10 points and 11 rebounds. The Celtics defense was dominant, holding the Pacers to 37 percent from the field.
After never playing completely healthy in his rookie campaign, this 2010-11 season has been a fantastic constant for Tyler Hansbrough. He has earned his way into the starting lineup now for the fifth straight game and that shouldn’t change anytime soon. He plays like very few in the NBA: hard-nosed, physical and rough the entire game. His passion and drive cannot be questioned.
Hansbrough is proving every game that he was worth the Pacers selection in 2009.