Ole Miss basketball standout Terence Davis is now known to be battling for a rotation spot after just signing a full NBA contract with the Toronto Raptors.
Now, the rookie has arguably been snubbed from the Rising Stars roster, which includes the top rookie and second year players in the league. Davis was left out of the game but did not seem discouraged about the news.
“This isn’t my first time not being selected for something,” Davis tweeted. “But I guess it’s easy going undrafted to playing quality mins on a championship team huh.”
Davis’ NBA potential was questioned coming out of Ole Miss, it’s clear that Davis is making the best out of his opportunities in his rookie season. One opportunity that was presented to him was the Rising All Star Game. The game will be held on All Star Weekend in Chicago, Feb. 14.
Davis’ numbers are comparable to many of the players who were selected. On top of his production, he has also integrated himself into a winning culture with the Raptors. It shouldn’t be overlooked how difficult this can be for first-year players.
The former Rebel responded by putting up career highs Sunday against the Chicago Bulls. Davis was 12-15 from the floor and 6-7 from three point range. He finished the game with 31 points, four rebounds and an assist.
“Hard work beats talent. Everyone knows that,” Davis said after his career night. “I got great teammates in a great organization and I couldn’t be in a better position man, I’m just blessed.”
The Raptors have been on a roll as of late with the help of Davis, winning franchise record 11 consecutive games to pass the Celtics for the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference. Over that period of time, Davis has played some of his best ball of the season.
He’s averaged 10 points and 3.6 rebounds on 52.8% shooting from beyond the arc. Davis also has been able to increase his role in minutes. From the start of the season to now, Davis’ minute average has jumped from 7.6 to 16.8. His spark off the bench has been a boost to his teammates as he has embraced his role.
Davis’ role could also be expanded in the second half of the season with Norman Powell out indefinitely with a fractured hand, opening the door for more minutes.
Outside of his teammates, there were others who thought Davis was overlooked for the game. Former NBA champion and basketball analyst Kendrick Perkins voiced his opinion.
“It’s no way in Hell that Rookie Terrance Davis of the Toronto Raptors shouldn’t be in the Rising Stars game,” Perkins said.
