'Mike's a legend': Mike Evans' childhood friends reflect on his upbringing in Galveston

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — When considering Bucs receiver Mike Evans, one often envisions the touchdowns, memorable highlights, and jaw-dropping catches on game days.

You might also think of the achievements (his 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, tied with Jerry Rice for the most in NFL history, the 2 Super Bowl wins, the six Pro Bowl selections, etc.) or the number 13 jersey he has worn since being drafted in 2014.

But to really know Evans, you have to take a trip to his hometown of Galveston, Texas.

Evans’ childhood friends think back to when he was a teenager playing basketball and running track for Ball High School.

Latest Buccaneers stories:

  • ‘Mike’s a legend’: Mike Evans’ childhood friends reflect on his upbringing in Galveston
  • Voice of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers shares his favorite game call
  • Bucs’ Baker Mayfield named FedEx Air & Ground NFL Player of the Week
  • Past, present & future: 50 years of Buccaneers football

It wasn’t until his senior year in high school that he pivoted from the court to the gridiron, and the rest is history from there.

As Evans enters the tail end of his career, News Channel 8 took a trip to the Lone Star State to see what makes him go, from those who know him best.

You can see this story and more during our Bucs 50 Seasons Celebration special, which airs Friday, October 17th at 7 p.m. on News Channel 8.

You May Also Like

World Cup Group Stage Finale: Round of 32 Bracket to Be Decided Today

As the World Cup group stage reaches its final day, the picture…

Harvey Weinstein’s California Rape Conviction Upheld, but Appeals Court Orders Resentencing

LOS ANGELES – A California appeals court on Friday left Harvey Weinstein’s…

Over 100 Dead Dogs Discovered at Northern California Rescue in Animal Cruelty Investigation

Video above: See the week’s top headlines in Tampa Bay (KTXL) —…

Weekend Heat Wave Alert: Temperatures Set to Soar This Weekend

ORLANDO, Fla. – Rain chances across Central Florida continue to ease as…

SNAP Recipient Faces Benefit Cut to $24 a Month, Raising Concerns Over Food Aid

NEW YORK CITY (WPIX) — Following months of sweeping changes to SNAP,…

Argentina Fans Spark World Cup Beef Debate in Texas as Asado Pride Meets BBQ Country

DALLAS – Bring thousands of Argentina supporters to Texas for the World…