Keyonte George honored to be a part of All-Star Weekend

NEW YORK (ABC4 Sports) – As the 16th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Keyonte George wasn’t supposed to have this big of an impact in his rookie season.

But the Utah Jazz point guard is averaging 11 points and 4.2 assists per game so far this year, George was an obvious pick for the NBA Rising Stars Game, which pits first and second year players against each other during NBA All-Star Weekend February 16th in Indianapolis.

11 players from the 2023 NBA Draft were selected, along with 17 second year players.

“It was cool,” George said about the selection. “So many players come through that game. 11 of us got chose, and there were way more than 11 rookies that got drafted. So, you’ve got to put things in perspective at times. Different accolades and accomplishments that you receive, you’ve got to ultimately just be blessed.”

George, Kessler selected to play in Rising Stars Game

Growing up as a kid, George watched the All-Star Game festivities every year, so to actually be a part of it now means so much to him.

“Just to be a part of it and to be in that atmosphere, and to be around high-caliber people from off the court and on the court,” George said. “This is going to be a fun time just to be a part of that.”

George will join Jazz teammate Walker Kessler in the Rising Stars Game. Kessler was selected last season as a rookie when the game was played in Salt Lake City.

Jazz head coach Will Hardy is extremely proud of both young players.

“I’m happy for both of those guys,” Hardy said. “I think anytime you’re honored by the league, by your peers, by other coaches, it speaks to the work that you’re doing. I don’t think anyone should take any of those moments for granted. To be recognized as some of the top young players in the league, it speaks to them and the work they’re putting in.”

George says is going to take full advantage of being around and learning from the best players in the world during his time in Indianapolis.

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“If I get a chance to be around the guys that have been named to the All-Star Game, and I get a chance to pick guys’ brains, you’ve got to take advantage of that,” George said. “For me to be out there and have the opportunity to grow my mind off the court and on the court, for me, that’s big time.”

The Rising Stars Game, which consists of four teams playing three total games, will take place Saturday, February 16th at 7:00 MT.

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