Who is Kyshawn George?

With a 1-5 record, it doesn’t look like much has changed for the Washington Wizards following last year’s disastrous 18-64 season. However, despite the unsuccessful start to the campaign, the Wizards have had some individual success stories, including former Miami Hurricanes guard Kyshawn George.

While the 2024 NBA Draft was deemed relatively weak, with no real standout stars (even Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle wasn’t expected to be a star), there were a number of players that could be useful pieces to help build around. One of those pieces is 21-year-old Swiss shooting guard Kyshawn George, the 24th pick in last year’s draft. Currently averaging 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, George, who was originally selected by the New York Knicks and traded for Dillon Jones (26th pick) and a second-round pick, has proven to be more than just a late first-round pick in a lackluster draft. 

After starting 38 of 68 games last season, averaging 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, the 6’7” shooting guard from Switzerland entered the Wizards' starting lineup to begin his sophomore season and doesn’t appear to be leaving it any time soon.

Spending the offseason as a member of Team Canada at the FIBA AmeriCup (his father is Canadian), George was able to work on fine-tuning his game following his rookie season. The extra game reps against elite international talent helped George improve both his shot selection and his court vision. 

Clearly a part of the Wizards' future, evident by the team exercising his 2026-27 team option, it may be early in George’s career, but in just a season plus, his offensive explosion and defensive growth, combined with a little bit of swagger, possibly give the Wizards more than just a component piece. They might have uncovered a diamond in the rough and a cornerstone piece.