Kyshawn George

Kyshawn George's Biography

Kyshawn Shanty Alonzo George, born on 12 December 2003, is a prominent figure in the international world of professional basketball. Born in Switzerland to a Canadian father who also played professional basketball, George spent his early life in Monthey, before moving to France where his basketball career truly began taking shape. This biography delves into his dynamic journey from a European basketball player to making his mark in the United States’ National Basketball Association (NBA), navigating his successes, challenges, and the experiences that have gone into shaping him as an athlete.

Raised amidst the scenic Swiss valleys of Monthey, George’s basketball journey began early. At the tender age of thirteen, his exceptional skills led to his inclusion in the Swiss U16 basketball championship team in 2016, contributing significantly to the team’s victory. This early victory was a mere glimmer of the shining career path that lay ahead of him.

Recognizing his potential, George’s family moved to France, where he spent the next four years honing his basketball skills with the notable Élan Chalon club. His initial days were spent in the U18 team from 2019 to 2021. George’s upward trajectory continued as he swiftly moved up the ranks, playing for the U21 team across the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 seasons, and even spent time in the first-team squad during his last season. His towering presence was felt in every game, averaging 11.1 points and 2 rebounds per game in 2021–22. His game soared even further in 2022–23 season, averaging 17.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. His remarkable accomplishments on the court led to him being named in the prestigious U21 Espoir Pro B’s first team.

During his time in France, George was a student at Lycée Emiland Gauthey in Chalon-sur-Saône. He underwent a significant growth spurt during these years, starting high school at a height of 5 feet 8 inches and standing at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches as he entered college.

In April 2023, George’s basketball journey shifted continents as he committed to playing for the Miami Hurricanes, a collegiate team representing the University of Miami. Rated as a three-star prospect, George made significant strides in his game during his tenure with the Hurricanes. After initially serving as a backup, he became a starter midway through his freshman season due to injuries among the existing players. He quickly established himself as a top player, attracting attention as a potential 2024 NBA draft prospect.

Following his successful freshman season, George boldly declared for the 2024 NBA Draft and received an invitation to the green room. On June 26, 2024, the New York Knicks selected him as the 24th overall pick. However, in a surprising turn of events, he was traded for the 26th and 51st overall picks in the draft. George eventually signed with the Washington Wizards on July 6, 2024, marking his entry into professional basketball in the United States.

George’s international basketball experience also includes representing his home country at the 2019 FIBA U16 European Championship Division B, where he put on an impressive performance in the six games that he played.

From the idyllic Swiss valleys to the vibrancy of the NBA, Kyshawn Shanty Alonzo George’s journey has been one of determination and progression. His pursuit for excellence on the basketball court is underpinned by his experiences across different continents, cultures, and of course, basketball courts, making him an inspiring figure in the sport. As he continues his professional journey with the Washington Wizards, fans and critics alike wait in anticipation to see the heights this Swiss-Canadian basketball player will reach.