Keenan Evans Returns to Court After 10 Months, Impresses in Preseason

Former Maccabi Tel Aviv player Keenan Evans made his return to the basketball court on Tuesday after a 10-month absence due to a severe Achilles tendon tear. Evans, who previously suffered a patellar tendon tear in May 2024 while playing for Zalgiris, signed with Olympiacos in the summer of 2024 despite his injury and missed the entire 2024-25 season. He briefly returned to the court in November for Olympiacos in the EuroLeague but re-injured himself within two minutes, tearing his left Achilles tendon, an injury similar to one he sustained on his right leg two years prior.

This summer, while still recovering, Evans rejoined Zalgiris on a one-year contract with an option for an additional season. He was immediately loaned to the London Lions, who will compete in the EuroCup this season. In his first game back, a friendly match against Lietkabelis, Evans played 13 minutes in an 89-83 loss, scoring 13 points. He shot 2-for-4 from three-point range and was perfect on six free throws, adding one steal.

Greek media reacted positively to his performance, calling it one of the most important games of his career despite being a friendly. They highlighted his return after nearly ten months away and a lengthy rehabilitation period. The report noted his efficiency, averaging a point per minute, which is particularly significant given his long layoff, generating optimism for the upcoming season.