One of the best to ever lace ’em up on the Ohio State hardwood has decided to call it a career… at least as a player. Evan Turner announced his retirement from the game of basketball ending his ten-year run as an NBA veteran. However, Turner isn’t done with the game just yet, accepting a position on the coaching staff with Brad Stevens and the Boston Celtics. Turner will focus on player development with the legendary NBA franchise.
After an outstanding college career at Ohio State, Turner was selected as the No. 2 pick in the 2010 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Over the course of those ten seasons, Turner never quite lived up to expectations as a lottery selection. He spent time with five different teams over the course of his career averaging 9.7 points per game, 4.6 rebounds per game, and 3.5 assists per game.
10-year NBA veteran Evan Turner is finalizing a deal to join the Boston Celtics as an assistant coach, sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium. Turner is expected to focus on player development.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 30, 2020
But it was at Ohio State where Turner will be forever remembered as one of the Buckeye greats. He was named the Naismith National Player of the Year in 2010 averaging 20.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. But what will forever be etched in my mind was the half-court dagger Turner delivered to beat Michigan as time expired in the 2010 Big Ten Tournament.
Evan Turner drops DEEP buzzer beater to stun rival Michigan (2010) pic.twitter.com/FknUGpZUmt
— Retro Sports Moments (@HistroyInSports) July 15, 2015
His jersey hangs in the rafters at Value City Arena for a reason. We’re thankful for the memories and excited to see his work in the next phase of his basketball journey.
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