Naithan George, the wizard of Syracuse's offense, has everyone talking! His performance against Florida State was nothing short of magical.
In a thrilling game at the JMA Wireless Dome, George showcased his skills as a master playmaker. With the ball in his hands, he commanded the court like a true quarterback, scanning the court for the perfect pass.
One particular play stands out: George, with the ball out of bounds, drew the defenders' attention to his right, only to swiftly whip a pass to the opposite corner, finding Tyler Betsey wide open. Betsey's 3-pointer was a testament to George's vision and precision.
But here's where it gets controversial...
FSU coach Luke Loucks, despite not knowing George's assist count, was impressed by two specific inbound plays. These seemingly simple plays, executed to perfection, showcased George's ability to manipulate defenses with his eyes. Loucks, known for his strong baseline defense, praised George's skill in shifting the defense with his gaze.
And this is the part most people miss...
George's impact went beyond those two plays. He finished the game with an impressive stat line: 13 assists, 8 points, 4 rebounds, and only 4 turnovers. His performance against Pitt, with 11 assists, also showcased his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
Syracuse coach Adrian Autry summed it up perfectly, "Nait was really good. He's the key to running this offense."
George's assist rate this season is the highest for a Syracuse player since Michael Carter-Williams, a testament to his skill and importance to the team.
But what about his turnovers? George has had some issues this season, but on Tuesday, he played a more efficient game, committing only four turnovers.
"He took care of the basketball," said Autry. "A couple of turnovers late, but that's to be expected when you're a passer like him."
So, what do you think? Is George's wizardry worth the occasional turnover? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts on this talented player and his impact on Syracuse's offense.