By Stefan Acevski / info@eurohoops.net
Kenneth Faried was named the EuroLeague MVP of the Month for November, the EuroLeague announced on Tuesday.
The EuroLeague also issued a statement regarding the award for the former Denver Nuggets player.
“Kenneth’s arrival at Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens made an immediate impact, and his stellar play has earned him the EuroLeague Basketball MVP of the Month for November presented by Motorola. Signed on November 9, Faried wasted no time becoming a force for his team, helping the Greens to a 4-0 record during the month and a share of first place in the standings.
Faried averaged 13.5 points on 64.5% shooting, 7.5 rebounds – including 4.0 offensive boards – and 2.0 blocks per game in November. His relentless energy and athleticism were on full display as he ranked second in blocks and sixth in rebounds across the league for the month. Faried’s highlight-reel dunks and emphatic shot rejections energized Panathinaikos and its fans, signaling his return to elite form.”
Faried was surprised with what he saw in Athens, and he told that to Olivia Harlan Dekker on the EuroLeague & Friends: MVP Talk podcast.
“I didn’t know what to expect, but the next thing I know I’m playing – I’m not just playing, I’m starting – and I’m contributing in a big way for the team. The chemistry just seemed like it was there from day one. It felt like I’ve been here for years.”
Since Faried’s arrival, Panathinaikos has recorded four wins in the EuroLeague and six in total across all competitions.
They will have the opportunity to continue their excellent form in December when Ergin Ataman’s team will play against Valencia, Olimpia Milano, Fenerbahce, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Zalgiris.