About Georges Niang

Georges Niang, born June 17, 1993, in Methuen, Massachusetts, is an American professional basketball player nicknamed "The Minivan" for his sturdy 6'7" frame as a power forward/small forward. He currently plays for the Utah Jazz of the NBA, having rejoined the team in 2025 after stints with multiple franchises.[1][4] Niang's high school career at Tilton School was stellar, where he earned NEPSAC Class AA Player of the Year honors in 2012, averaging 25.1 points and 7.2 rebounds as a senior, and led his team to a championship. At Iowa State University, he became the program's all-time leading scorer in NCAA Tournament play with 148 points, amassed over 2,000 career points, 700 rebounds, and 400 assists—rarities placing him among elite college players since 1994-95. Highlights include Consensus All-America honors, the Karl Malone Award as the nation's top power forward in his senior year (after dropping 30 pounds to transform his game), Big 12 All-Rookie Team (2013), and Diamond Head Classic All-Tournament Team (2014).[2][3][5] Drafted 50th overall in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, Niang's pro journey included G League time with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants and Santa Cruz Warriors before signing with the Utah Jazz in 2018. He later played for the Philadelphia 76ers (2021-2023), Cleveland Cavaliers (2023-2025), Atlanta Hawks (2025), and returned to Utah. Known for high basketball IQ, shooting, and versatility, he earns $8.2 million annually and remains a reliable rotation player.[1][3][4] Niang's path reflects perseverance, from an overlooked youth prospect to a decade-long NBA veteran valued for teamwork and scoring efficiency.[3][5]

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