NBA Superlatives: Pelicans guard Jimmer Fredette
Although Jimmer Fredette has only been in the NBA for a relatively brief amount of time (three-plus seasons), the 25-year-old has a bit more pro experience than many of his teammates. Born in 1989, Fredette is also older than numerous Pelicans roster members who were born in the 1990s. New Orleans is Fredette’s third NBA team, after playing previously for Sacramento and Chicago. The former first-round pick listed several of the top memories from his NBA career for Pelicans.com:
Most memorable moment in the NBA: “When I scored my career high in points at Madison Square Garden last season (24 points vs. the Knicks). It was in front of my hometown fans, so that was a lot of fun to be able to do that. New York City is about a 2 1/2-hour trip from where I grew up in Glens Falls.”
Most memorable dunk in the NBA: “I haven’t had a dunk in the NBA yet! I dunked in college and high school, but I need to get myself one this season.”
Most embarrassing moment in the NBA: “I had to wear one of those Hello Kitty backpacks to a game when I was rookie. The veterans on the team made me do that and bring candy to the airplane.”
Most surprising thing about the NBA as a rookie: “How much you travel and how hard the schedule is. You play 82 games, and you’re not used to that at all. You’re used to practicing, but the 82-game schedule is something you have to be mentally prepared for every single night, which is very tough.”
Toughest player to face at his position: “Russell Westbrook or Derrick Rose, because they’re so athletic and can shoot the ball. Their athleticism is tough to handle.”
Most underrated player in the NBA: “Paul Millsap of Atlanta. Back when I was in Utah for college, I watched him a lot when he played for the Jazz. He was an All-Star last season, but people don’t really know much about him. He can rebound, score and is a really great player.”
Best uniforms in the NBA (besides the Pelicans’): “I really like the Bulls’ uniforms. My high school colors were red and black, so I always liked them.”
Favorite road arena: “Salt Lake City in Utah, because I have so many great fans out there. They come out and support me. The fan base is awesome.”
Favorite road trip, based on the city: “New York City. It’s my favorite city in the country, not only because I’m from around there, but also there is so much to do. I love the buzz of the city and it has tons of great food spots.”
