Image Source: Desert News
[Saba Sports News] In professional basketball, there’s no bigger stage than the NBA Finals. The 2024 Finals between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks have been especially notable for first-time players, including Utah Jazz rookie Keyonte George, who is experiencing it from the sidelines.
The NBA enlisted four players as NBA Finals Correspondents for this Celtics-Mavs series: George, Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr., Rockets guard Amen Thompson, Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson, and Golden State Warriors rookie Brandin Podziemski.
During a break in his duties, George spoke with ClutchPoints about his experience.
“I had the opportunity to come here as a player correspondent,” George said. “I get to ask questions, see everything up close. It’s a phenomenal opportunity to pick the brains of other players. Honestly, the advice I got was just to ask questions I’m genuinely curious about.”
George’s first task was to ask Mavs guard Kyrie Irving a question, and it turned out to be a great one.
“You seem to play freely day in and day out. I want to know the different variables—whether it’s the people you surround yourself with, your work, or routines. How do you maintain that freedom on the court?”
Irving responded that it takes a combination of factors.
“It starts with being aware of your own goals and your team’s goals, and figuring out how you can help accomplish them,” Irving said. “Also, what’s going to bring you peace of mind off the court when you leave it.”
Keyonte George finished his rookie season averaging 13 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game in 75 appearances. As a starter in 44 games, he averaged 14.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, establishing himself as a future cornerstone for the Jazz.