The Utah Jazz Acquire Georges Niang and Draft Picks in Trade
The Utah Jazz add depth and future flexibility with the acquisition of Georges Niang and two future draft picks.
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]
The Utah Jazz add depth and future flexibility with the acquisition of Georges Niang and two future draft picks.