BY: PATRICK Z. MCGAVIN (SunTimes.com) -

Five years ago, Evan Turner was regarded as the second-best college prospect at St. Joseph behind his close friend, Illinois guard Demetri McCamey.

On Thursday night at Madison Square Garden, Turner was second again. The Philadelphia 76ers selected the West Side native and Ohio State forward with the No. 2 overall pick behind Kentucky point guard John Wall, the top selection of the Washington Wizards.

Asked on ESPN about his quick recovery after he suffered two broken vertebra last December, Turner said, ”I just think it shows I’m relentless, tough and I love playing basketball.”

The NCAA player of the year earned raves for his versatility, size and leadership skills.

”What I love about him is he’s a great competitor and a winner,” new Sixers coach Doug Collins said.

St. Joseph coach Gene Pingatore said the 6-7 wing forward……

READ THE REST OF THE STORY DIRECTLY FROM THE SOURCE PAGE AT SUNTIMES.COM BY CLICKING HERE.

Related posts:

1. Shining Star: The Light Has Come On for Terrelle Pryor