Oct 29, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) during the game against the Detroit Pistons at Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 89-79. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Since entering the league as the 22nd overall pick by the Denver Nuggets in the 2011 NBA Draft, Kenneth Faried has had more than his fair share of memorable moments. Faried’s tenacious style of play and ability to throw down some of the most vicious dunks known to man have made him a fan favorite and one of the faces the franchise puts front and center in most of their community outreach programs. Faried came right in and made a name for himself during his rookie season, playing in 46 games and averaging 10.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. With so many highlights to choose from, it could be challenging to pick the moment Faried knew he had a arrived and belonged in the league, but thanks to this segment produced by the NBA, we now know exactly when it occurred.
If you’ll recall, Faried’s first NBA points came in the second game of the NBA season against the visiting Sacramento Kings. And his first basket in the NBA was a memorable one:
Faried’s spectacular dunk off the no look, behind-the-head pass from former Nugget Rudy Fernandez signaled The Manimal’s arrival in Denver and gave fans a preview of the exciting style of play they would come to expect from the 6′ 8″ forward out of Morehead State University.
All things considered, I can think of a lot worse ways to get your feet wet in the association than by having the first points of your NBA career come off a highlight-reel alley oop!