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The good news keeps rolling in for BYU Hoops as the Cougars added 6’6” JUCO forward Gideon George to the 2020 recruiting class. George came to Provo on an official visit this past weekend and was in attendance for the Gonzaga game.
I am so incredibly excited to announce that 2020 6'6 F Gideon George of NMJC has committed to BYU after his official visit last weekend. I won't stop smiling for days. This young man's story is incredible and the next chapter is about to begin! From Nigeria to Utah! pic.twitter.com/G7h9xuDY3s
— JUCOadvocate (@JUCOadvocate) February 25, 2020
Gideon is originally from Abuja, Nigeria and currently plays at New Mexico Junior College. The first thing that pops off his film is his athleticism; he is 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan and plays above the rim. In 23 games this season, he is averaging 14.3 ppg and 8 rpg per game while shooting 50.6% from the floor and 35.5% from three. George does most of his damage around the rim, but he improved his three-point from 9% as a freshman to over 35% this season.
Defensively, George uses his length and versatility to affect shots and passes around the rim and perimeter. He’s had two games this season with four steals and another where he recorded 5 blocks. His length and ability to rebound will allow him to play the 2-4 positions during his time at BYU.
George had never been to the States before starting at New Mexico JC. He was found by a basketball camp run by JUCO Advocate where George had come 10 hours by bus to attend. The below thread gives some detail into how he was found.
From Africa to Mullens Dallas Blowout....a thread
— JUCOadvocate (@JUCOadvocate) October 5, 2018
1- Sunset as we land in Lagos Nigeria
2- Boarding a plane I'm pretty sure used to cover the Topek to Reno Route in 1993
3- Found out right away we weren't in the US anymore
4- Home in Owerri...what's over the wall? pic.twitter.com/4zyL4DFjhd
George also had offers from Kent State and Weber State and will be junior next season when he arrives at campus.
You can watch highlights from George below.