Meet Paul George
Paul George is making his first appearance in the Slam Dunk Contest in 2012. He has received honours at almost every level, starting with career at Pete Knight High School from his hometown of Palmdale, California by taking the Golden League MVP in 2007.
He was later recruited to Fresno State and also received offers from Penn State and Georgetown. Paul George was taken 10th overall in the 2010 NBA draft and was one of two players from that draft class to start a playoff game in his rookie year, along with Laundry Field of the Knicks. He became known in his time at Fresno for having a complete all-around game, showing promise on both sides of the court.
Some scouts were pleasantly surprised by his excellent free-throw percentages (80.9% over two years, including 91% in 2009), and great field goal stats (44.7% over two years). His free-throw stats are second all-time in Fresno State history, and he was in the top-20 shooters for sophomores in the NCAA.
Saying that his favourite athlete growing up was Kobe Bryant, the Pacers would undoubtedly love Paul George to take after the long-time Lakers superstar. He looks up to Kobe mostly for his work ethic and his ability to pull in rebounds when he doesn’t score points, making him an effective all-around player.
Many analysts view Paul George as the new cornerstone of the franchise they haven’t had since Jermaine O’Neil was shipped out of town. George is still growing into his game. Literally. On draft day he was listed at 6-8 but in training camp before his second season he was measured at 6-10. Seen constantly in the weight room, no one denies this Slam Dunk Contest won’t be his last. You can learn more about Paul George here.
The Paul George Highlight Reel
Paul George Slam Dunk Contest 2012 Videos
Some slam dunk inspiration for you…
