HIGHLAND — Taking the reins from a coach like Quincy Lewis is far from an easy task, but with some unique credentials, and good familiarity with the Lone Peak boys basketball program, newly hired coach David Evans could well be equal to the task.
Evans met with players, family and anyone else interested in the Knight basketball program Wednesday night, introducing himself shortly after arriving from Hawaii. For just about everyone, it was their first chance to meet the former BYU-Hawaii assistant coach face-to-face, including many of the Lone Peak players, who are anxious to get to know their new coach better.
"I honestly know nothing about the guy," said Lone Peak guard Frank Jackson shortly after Evans addressed those in attendance. "I mean, I've heard he's a great coach and a great guy, so I can't wait to work with him."
Evans likewise expressed excitement to work with Jackson and all other players in the Lone Peak program. Over the years, as a coach with BYU-Hawaii, Evans has recruited several Lone Peak players, such as Zach Frampton, Connor Toolson and Brody Berry, among others.
"I know the quality of kids that come from the Lone Peak program, which is why I wanted to come here," Evans said. "There's a lot of quality people in this community, and it's an honor to be the coach here."
Evan understands expectations will be sky high for him and the team he coaches right off the bat and is excited for the opportunity to meet those expectations.
"Quincy Lewis is an amazing coach and he's built a great program that is expected to win," Evans said. "For me, I'd rather come to a program with high expectations where they're expected to win. We're going to work hard and do the best we can."
According to Evans, he shares a lot of the same coaching philosophies as Lewis, which could help make the transition for prospective Lone Peak players easier than otherwise.
"I feel like he's going to have the same style as Quincy and I like what I've heard so far," Jackson said. "I'm just excited to get going, learn about him more, work with him. It should be fun."
Email: bgurney@desnews.com
Twitter: @BrandonCGurney