Nigel Hayes-Davis is facing a tough NBA return, but Sarunas Jasikevicius believes he'll carve out a role in the league. In Greece, media reports have linked him with rumored interest from Panathinaikos.
Nigel Hayes-Davis may not be playing much for the Phoenix Suns right now, but Sarunas Jasikevicius isn't questioning how his former player will handle the challenge. He's betting on the same work habits that built Hayes-Davis' reputation in Europe.
Phoenix Suns / Schedule
Asked if he's been following Hayes-Davis in the NBA, the Fenerbahce Istanbul coach laughed.
"There isn't really much to check there," Jasikevicius said to BasketNews, referencing Hayes-Davis' limited role.
In 22 appearances for the Suns this season, Hayes-Davis has averaged 1.4 points on 33% shooting and 1.3 rebounds in 8 minutes per game.
Jasikevicius added that Hayes-Davis understood the situation when he went to Phoenix.
"He knew what he was walking into, and that his role would be smaller," said Saras.
The expectation, Jasikevicius said, is that Hayes-Davis will keep pushing until he earns a real spot in the rotation.
"He will keep banging his head against the wall until he breaks through," Jasikevicius said to BasketNews. "That's how he achieved everything in Europe."
With rumors circulating about a possible return to Europe and Hayes-Davis still chasing his NBA goals, Jasikevicius said the message is simple:
"Patience. But I know what Nigel is like."
Jasikevicius sees Hayes-Davis carrying the same habits that made him in Europe straight into the NBA.
"I can picture his life: he probably arrives in other U.S. cities, goes to the gym, and gets up shots for an hour," he said with a smile.
"I guarantee you he goes to the Phoenix Suns' practice facility every night at around 10-11 p.m. and shoots for an hour."
As for what Hayes-Davis listens to during those late-night sessions, Jasikevicius smiled.
"I don't know what he's into at that moment," he said. "But I know how he lives and what he does."
Jasikevicius Reacts To His Viral Rant & Heated Moments
Donatas Urbonas
Donatas Urbonas is an award-winning Lithuanian basketball journalist, recognized as the best sports journalist in Lithuania in 2016 and the top basketball journalist in 2018. A Vilnius University journalism graduate, Urbonas has reported on major global sports events, including the Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 Olympics, FIBA World Cups, EuroBaskets, NBA Summer League, and NBA Draft.
About author
Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.