Despite missing Utah Valley’s first three games, Evan Cole has transitioned into his new role seamlessly. Through his first three games in a Wolverine jersey, Cole is averaging 16.3 points per game and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting at a blistering 61 percent.
In his first two games against Southern Utah and Wyoming, Cole had six and 12 points, respectively.
Cole’s best performance, though, came last week against the University of Utah. Cole had a career game, posting a career-high 31 points as well as pulling down ten rebounds and tallying three blocks. Despite the career performance, Utah Valley fell just short against the Runnin’ Utes.
Cole’s efforts against Utah didn’t go unnoticed though. Cole earned the College Sports Madness WAC Player of the Week award.
“Evan Cole, he played with huge heart,” Utah Valley head coach Mark Madsen said after the Utah game last Tuesday. “He is someone who was out for a little while for medical reasons. He’s been in the process of getting back to full strength. I think tonight we saw a glimpse of what he’s capable of doing out there.”
The preseason second team All- WAC selection has made an instant impact for this Utah Valley squad. Paired with his front court colleague Fardaws Aimaq, these two will make life difficult for opposing teams in conference play. Cole and Aimaq combined to pull down 19 of the Wolverines’ rebounds against Utah.
Utah Valley is currently 2-4 overall. The Wolverines have wins over non-Division I opponents while all four losses have come against Division I opponents. The most recent loss came at Utah where the Wolverines struggled down the stretch and Utah finished the game on a 7-0 run.
Utah Valley has one last pre-conference tune up as they host San Diego Christian on Dec. 29. The Wolverines will open up conference play at home against Cal Baptist on Jan. 8-9.
Add Comment