Santa Cruz Warriors at Iowa Wolves: Jones’ 29 leads top-3 performers

Niang goes for 19

Since being drafted as the 20th pick in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft (50th overall), Georges Niang hasn’t been able to find a footing in the major league NBA. Watching him play this season, I think that could change.

The former 4-star recruit has played a huge part in Santa Cruz’s impressive start, averaging 18.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.1 steals in 31.4 minutes. He’s also been rather efficient with his scoring, shooting 64.2 percent from the field, 56.7 percent from behind the arc and 83.3 percent from the free throw line.

Against the Iowa Wolves, the 24-year-old forward posted 19 points, two rebounds and five assists on 8-of-15 shooting from the field. It was by no means his best game this season, but noteworthy, nonetheless.

My favorite part about Niang’s game is his court vision and willingness to help set his teammates up for scoring opportunities. That unselfishness from the forward spot has become more and more important in the NBA, and Niang certainly fits the bill when I think of unselfish big men.