Georges Niang Thriving in First Full Season with Utah Jazz

The recipient of a master's degree in business management from Oxford Brookes University, Craig Luschenat is an aspiring NBA player development specialist who has participated in summer workouts with the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics. Recently, Craig Luschenat helped train Utah Jazz forward Georges Niang.

A 25-year-old native of Lawrence, Massachusetts, Niang was selected 50th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2016 NBA Draft, but spent only 23 games with the team before being waived by the team in July 2017. He later signed with and was subsequently waived by the Golden State Warriors, but has now found a home in Utah after signing a two-way contract with the team in January 2018. Niang played limited minutes through nine games with the team last season, and has become a core member of the team's bench unit this season. 

Through the first 10 games of the season, Niang is currently averaging 8.2 minutes per game up from 3.6 last season and has 4.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game. More importantly, he has made 10 of his first 20 three-point field goal attempts. He attributes his early-season success to the experience he gained both on and off the court last season.

Up-and-Coming Forward Georges Niang Joins Utah Jazz

Craig Luschenat of Massachusetts specializes in developing talent for the NBA. Also the holder of a master’s degree from Oxford Brookes University, Craig Luschenat has mentored former Iowa State player Georges Niang, who recently signed with the Utah Jazz.

Niang stood out in the NBA’s G League (minor league), averaging 19.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, playing an average of 33.9 minutes. His passing skills and defensive prowess caught the attention of Jazz head coach Quin Snyder.

The 6-8, 230-pound forward racked up an average of 22 points per game for the G League’s Salt Lake City Stars, leading the team. His scoring average was ninth in the league, 10th in field-goal percentage (.570), and second in three-point performance (.459). 

Niang earned a spot in the G League’s First Team for 2017-2018. He also appeared in the Midseason West Team, chosen by general managers, players, and coaches.

Although the Jazz did not disclose the terms of his contract, sources say that Niang’s first year is guaranteed, all but assuring him of a place on the final roster.