Kenny George, the Impressive 7'-7'' Center with an Uncertain Future

Those who are unaware of who junior Kenny George is have clearly never seen the UNC-Ashville center step out on to the court. The mammoth center hailing from Chicago weighs in at 360 pounds and seven feet seven inches. With shoes, George reach seven feet nine inches and sports an unimaginable wingspan that has propelled him to elite status. Kenny George is the tallest player in NCAA history. George has drawn attention as the leading shot blocker in the nation with 69 blocks already. Highlights include two 10-block games as well as registering at least 3 blocks in every game this season.

However, many scouts are questioning the viability of George in the NBA. They worry that teams look upon him favorably simply because of his size. However, George has proved that he has the skill to be a quality play in the NBA if he can stay healthy. The pure size of George is what makes him most valuable. The NBA currently suffers from a lack of quality centers and general big men. While many players may have more talent than George, his size and shot blocking ability will force players out of their comfort zone. Players must alter shots to avoid the menacing presence of the big man, which leads to shots that are more difficult to make. Guards and even smaller forwards have an immense difficultly driving to the basket when George is in the game. George can effectively shut down a team's game in the paint. At the professional level, his effect may not be as dramatic, but will still be highly effective. George has proven himself a quality rebounder with an average of 9.4 rebounds per game. His tenacity when rebounding is a very important characteristic that NBA teams look for.

The focus has been on Kenny's sensational defense play, but his offensive play is also adequate and highly efficient. He has reached double digits in scoring in ten of the thirteen games he has played in. Kenny is not the best of passers but has managed to contribute 1.4 assists per game. It is this type of contribution that might not stand out in the box scored, but helps his team achieved success. Another important factor that will contribute to his success at the next level is that he has kept his turnover levels very low. By holding onto the ball well he does not hurt his team offensively unlike many other big men.

George is a double-double threat every time he steps on the court and even had a triple-double against Campbell. His size and production this year is what has created such interest in him. However, it is his past that has caused concern. George did not play in the 2004-2005 or the 2005-2006 seasons. As with almost every other big man, George has been forced to deal with his share of knee problems. George had dislocated and had surgery on both of his kneecaps. This injury caused George to miss the two seasons. Injuries such as these are concerning for NBA teams looking to draft a player that can contribute for years to come. Big men often have short careers due to leg injuries that result from their size. George is already suffering from such injuries and thus his long-term future is in doubt.

Some may worry that the college competition George has been facing is substandard and this has made his performances seem more impressive than they truly are. George was unable to play against quality team Virginia Tech. However against Tennessee he posted 7 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks. George also came to play against number one in the nation and state rival UNC. He scored 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks. Against the tougher competition, George has shown up to play and posted quality numbers. While this sample size is small, it should give some indication that he will not disappear when facing tough competition.

Size and strength always intrigue NBA teams. Kenny George has these natural gifts and has also shown solid statistical play. Look for George to spend one more season with UNC-Ashville before entering the NBA draft. Due to injury concerns, he will not be at the top of the draft, but expected him to be selected at some point in the late first or early second round of the NBA draft. This intriguing prospect will flourish in the college ranks and if he is able to stay healthy will have a productive NBA career.

Sources:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/player/profile?playerId=27468

http://uncabulldogs.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/122706aaa.html