VanVleet scores franchise-high 54 points in win over Orlando

Fred VanVleet, an undrafted guard who famously said “Bet on Yourself,” shot his way into the record books Tuesday.

The fifth-year veteran put on a show with a franchise-record 54 points as the Toronto Raptors defeated the Orlando Magic 123-108. According to Elias

Sports, it was also a record points total for an undrafted player — Hall of Famer Moses Malone had 53 against San Diego on Feb. 2, 1982.

The Raptors’ previous single-game scoring record was 52 points, set by DeMar DeRozan against Milwaukee on Jan. 1, 2018. Terrence Ross and Vince Carter each scored 51 in Toronto colours.

“Unbelievable. I’m very humbled and honoured to be in the same sentence as both of those guys (DeRozan and Malone),” said VanVleet. “Just a special night, obviously on a lot of different levels.

“I’m trying to enjoy it for now but it’s not a championship or anything like that. It was a good game for me. I’ll enjoy all the love for a couple of hours and get ready for the next one.”

He said his teammates were more excited than he was. Kyle Lowry, who made sure his teammate got the game ball, was all smiles after the game.

“You all know how I feel about him. That’s my little brother, man. I’m proud of him,” said backcourt partner Lowry, who quietly had his 17th career tripledouble (his 15th as a Raptor).

“He’s a winner, simple as that,” he added.

“It's incredible,” said Toronto coach Nick Nurse. “To be an undrafted guy and to do that. It really is incredible.

“He’s got a pedigree for winning, every team he's been on his whole life. Just a tremendous competitor, worker, thinker.”

Listed at six foot one, VanVleet makes his living in the land of the giants. But the Wichita State product is hardworking, tough and fearless, negotiating his way through big bodies under the basket or putting up shots from distance.

“I just try to play the game the right way. You play with a pure heart and a clear conscience and a clear soul, then good things happen for you,” he said.

Away from the floor, the 26-year-old from Rockford, Ill., is one of the most thoughtful Raptors, well-spoken and insightful.

Betting on himself paid off last November when he signed a four-year US$85-million contract, another record for an undrafted player. Apparently he has made some big-ticket purchases.

“Look at the watch,” Lowry said as

VanVleet followed him in front of the post-game Zoom availability.

VanVleet made 11-of-14 three-point attempts, coming within one of the franchise record of 12 by Donyell Marshall, in March 2005 against Philadelphia. In all, he made 17-of-23 shots and converted all nine freethrow attempts.

The points came naturally. VanVleet was in the right place at the right time more often than. And he took advantage in his 37 minutes on the floor.