Jazz rookie Keyonte George is on a mission to prove he has what it takes to be an NBA-level point guard

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Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George (3) looks to pass the ball as the Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers play in Summer League action at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. 76ers won 104-94. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Keyonte George grew up idolizing Russell Westbrook.

A point guard with a high motor and a penchant for triple-doubles who was never going to relent and never back down, Westbrook could take over a game at any moment and was the NBA’s Most Valuable Player in 2017.

Now George watches players closer to his age he feels he can emulate, players who have skills he wants to develop and improve, but even that small note of realism hasn’t kept him from having lofty goals and following players with impressive resumés.

Most recently George was keeping a close eye on the Denver Nuggets and the point guard who led them to the 2023 NBA title.

“This year I watched a lot of Jamal Murray,” George said. “A point guard that can get downhill, get to his spots. I’m just trying to take little things from his game, taking notes on the different shots that he was getting in the playoffs.”

George also spent time in the offseason working out with Sacramento Kings All-Star De’Aaron Fox.

It’s not an accident or an unintended coincidence that the NBA players George is working out with or watching are high-level point guards.

Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George (3) and Utah Jazz guard Ochai Agbaji (30) watch the game with assistant coach Evan Bradds as the Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers play in Summer League action at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. 76ers won 104-94. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret NewsUtah Jazz guard Ochai Agbaji (30) has the ball knocked away by Philadelphia 76ers guard Javonte Smart (39) as the Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers play in Summer League action at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. 76ers won 104-94. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret NewsUtah Jazz forward Luka Samanic (19) battles against Philadelphia 76ers guard Javonte Smart (39) as the Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers play in Summer League action at the…

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Author : Deseret News

Publish date : 2023-07-06 05:29:31

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