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Evan Taylor(2023/24)- Basketball

Evan Taylor

Evan Taylor

UNL BASKETBALL STANDOUT EVAN TAYLOR RECEIVES NGF GRANT

UNL Basketball spirit and community are big parts of Nebraska’s sports scene, and we recognize the hard work that athletes put in every day to keep UNL as a reference for varsity athletics in the Midwest. 

Today, we are proud to announce that, once again, thanks to your help, we are able to assist local athletes in need, and, in this case, specifically, UNL Basketball standout Evan Taylor. 

We are always proud to give back to resilient and passionate athletes who better our community with the power of sports. 


Born on April 11, 1996, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Evan’s journey to success has been marked by determination, resilience, and unyielding perseverance.

Growing up in Ohio, Evan Taylor developed his skills on the basketball court before moving to Florida at the age of 13. 

It was during this time that his passion for the game really flourished. Little did he know that this beginning would lay the foundation for an extraordinary career.

Taylor, who once played for the Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions in Austria, had to leave his team and return to the United States due to ongoing foot and leg issues. 

His condition required surgery and has since necessitated further examination and physical therapy.
 

His Time at UNL

During his time at UNL, Evan Taylor showcased his exceptional talent and became a vital member of the team. 

Throughout the 2017 and 2018 seasons, he proudly received different honors that show his hard work and courage:
 

  • Team Captain (2017-18)
  • Big Ten Sportsmanship Nominee (2017-18)
  • Tom Osborne Citizenship Team (2017)
  • Southern Conference All-Freshman Team (2014-15)
  • 2017-18 (Senior) 

Over the course of 33 games, he left an indelible mark on the Husker basketball program.  Notably, his tremendous improvement in shooting was a testament to his hard work ethic, as he went from shooting 24 percent as a junior to an impressive 44 percent during his senior season.

This, of course, was just the beginning of his fruitful career because just a few years later, we would go on and play for the Arkadia Lions in Europe. 

EVAN TAYLOR’S MEDICAL JOURNEY

However, Evan’s journey faced a significant roadblock when ongoing foot and leg issues forced him to leave his team in Europe and return to the United States. 

This setback required surgery and continues to demand extensive examination and physical therapy. 

Sports injuries often have profound negative effects on athletes’ self-esteem and mental health. They can lead to feelings of frustration, fear, anger, and even a loss of self-identity, especially for those who strongly identify themselves with their sport, like Evan.

The road to recovery and therapy sessions can also be mentally strenuous. The pain, repetition, and slow progress can sometimes feel defeated.

However, Evan’s story is not one of defeat but success. Despite the challenges, Evan’s approach is one of faith and determination to overcome adversity and make a triumphant recovery.


HOW THE NEBRASKA GREATS FOUNDATION SERVED BASKETBALL STAR EVAN TAYLOR

A physical injury can be a discouraging time for any athlete and his team. However, the good news for Evan is that he is, and never will be, alone. 

With the help of his family, friends, and, of course, The Nebraska Greats Foundation, he will be quickly on his way to recovery. 

The grant will provide funding for Taylor’s medical evaluations and subsequent physical therapy, enabling him to focus on his recovery without the burden of medical costs. 

The Nebraska Greats Foundation is proud to support athletes like Taylor, who have represented Nebraska with distinction and honor on the court.

In no time, Evan Taylor can return to his daily life and activities, enjoying time with his family and friends in the US.

The Nebraska Greats Foundation takes immense pride in supporting athletes like Taylor, who have brought honor and distinction to Nebraska through their sporting prowess. 

The recovery journey would not have been possible without your generous contributions. Every donation played a crucial role in providing Evan with the support he needed during this challenging time

“I can’t express how truly thankful I am for the Nebraska Greats Foundation and all the support and help they have shown me through a challenging season in life,” 

“I extend my gratitude and deepest appreciation for everyone who is a part of the foundation.”

Said Taylor. 

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