The resurgence of Jacksonville Dolphins’ Kevion Nolan
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — There’s nothing more damaging to an athlete’s psyche than succumbing to an injury that rules them out for the remainder of the season. While there’s the distant but hopeful outlook that they will recover in time for next season, there’s also a looming doubt swirling in their minds that such a catastrophe could happen again. It takes a great deal of courage and mental strength to get back on the proverbial horse and confront the fear that gnaws at them. When it comes to Jacksonville Dolphins’ Kevion Nolan, not only is he facing what’s haunting him, he’s taking the lead.
The 6-foot-2 guard is one of five senior members on the Dolphins’ 14-man roster and is willing to be the player his teammates look up to when on the court. Last season, Nolan suffered a horrific leg injury which cost him to miss the remainder of the season. Prior to that devastating blow, Nolan appeared in nine games of which eight of them were starts. His most celebrated game was against Kennesaw State where he had a career-high 32 points and made 12 field goals. That performance was followed up in game two against the same team where Nolan dropped 23 points, including a late three-pointer to clinch the game.
His performance earned him the ASUN Player of the Week award and there was a case to be made that he could have been the ASUN Player of the Year had he not gotten injured. His numbers were solid. In 33.7 minutes per contest, he averaged 16.6 points and had 3.6 rebounds per game. Nolan also dished out a total of 33 assists and nabbed 17 steals which would indicate that not only is he a valued member of the team, but also an indispensable one. His leadership quality and hunger to succeed funnels through the team. Without him, the Jacksonville Dolphins finished second from the bottom in the conference with a 5-9 record.
It’s undeniable that Nolan possesses the qualities that will not only lift the team to greater heights but also help improve development for this very young roster. Nolan understands the responsibilities he has on this team and is determined to pay back the patience and respect that the coaching staff offered him when he was nursing his injury. The commitment, talent and willingness to succeed isn’t the issue with Nolan. It’s whether he can play a whole season without fear of aggravating the leg injury. He understands that what is expected of him and is committed to rising to the challenge.
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