Paul George’s dad thought Sixers star’s NBA career was over after brutal leg injury in 2014
The NBA is littered with talented players but few possess the complete package that Paul George has in his arsenal. The 34-year-old has the ability to shoot, dribble, pass and defend at a high level. The nine-time All-Star is currently preparing for his 14th NBA season but things could have been very different for George who suffered a brutal leg injury in 2014.
During an episode of the "Podcast P with Paul George" that was released on Monday, the NBA star and his father sat down to talk about the career-threatening injury and the impact it had on the family. At one point, Paul George Sr. thought the setback was too great to overcome:
"He had a good reason to throw the towel in. He could have stopped When that happened I was like, 'Uh, he might have to look into doing something else now.'"
George's father was devastated at the time of the injury but praised his son's resilience and perseverance after he hit a crossroad:
"He don't take no for an answer, he don't let nothing get in his way. ... He is not giving up."
The Philadelphia 76ers star added that once he heard from the doctors that it was a clean break, he hoped that the injury would heal and he could return to his best.
At the time of the injury, George was considered one of the league's rising stars. During the 2013-14 season, he was an All-Star and was selected to the NBA Defensive Team and All-NBA Third Team. He finished ninth in MVP voting that season.
George missed almost the entire 2014-15 season, playing just 91 total minutes in six games for the Indiana Pacers.
Paul George will partner with Joel Embiid in Philadelphia next season as he goes in search of his first NBA title
Paul George's decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason was one of the most highly publicized and talked about moves. The versatile guard/forward signed a colossal four-year, $212 million deal with the Sixers.
George will be playing alongside former NBA MVP center Joel Embiid and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey in what promises to be one of the most exciting and dynamic offenses in the league.
The move to Philadelphia could be the perfect fit for George who is still in search of his first NBA title. The Sixers have not won a championship since 1983 and will also be desperate to break their 41-year drought.