Kenny George

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Kenny George is a former American college basketball player known for his remarkable height and size. Born on February 18, 1987, George played for the University of North Carolina at Asheville Bulldogs. Standing at 7 feet 7 inches (2.31 m) and weighing 360 pounds (163 kg) during his college career, he was one of the tallest and largest players to ever play the game. George's size not only made him a notable figure in college basketball but also brought significant attention to the challenges and advantages of being an exceptionally tall athlete in the sport.

Early Life and High School Career

Kenny George grew up in Chicago, Illinois, where he initially attended Latin School of Chicago before transferring to Holy Innocents Episcopal School in Atlanta, Georgia. His extraordinary height was evident from an early age, making him a standout player in high school basketball. Despite his size, George did not start playing basketball until relatively late, which meant he had to work hard to develop his skills and understanding of the game.

College Career

George played for the UNC Asheville Bulldogs from 2006 to 2008. Under the guidance of coach Eddie Biedenbach, he quickly became a key player for the team. In the 2007-2008 season, George made headlines for his performance, averaging 12.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and an impressive 3.3 blocks per game. His ability to alter shots and dominate the paint made him a formidable defensive presence. George's most notable college game came against the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he scored 14 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and blocked 4 shots.

One of the highlights of George's college career was being named to the Big South All-Conference Second Team and leading the nation in field goal percentage, showcasing his efficiency and impact on the court. However, his career was marred by injuries and health issues, primarily related to his size.

Professional Career and Later Life

Kenny George's professional basketball career was limited due to health complications. In 2008, he suffered a serious infection in his right foot, which eventually led to partial amputation. This health setback significantly impacted his ability to play basketball at a professional level. Despite this, George's story and determination have inspired many, highlighting the challenges faced by extraordinarily tall athletes, including issues related to mobility, health, and the physical demands of professional sports.

Legacy

Kenny George's college basketball career, though brief, left a lasting impression on the sport. His unique physical attributes brought attention to the advantages and disadvantages of being exceptionally tall in basketball. George's story is a reminder of the diversity of athletes in sports and the unpredictable nature of athletic careers due to health and physical conditions.

See Also

• List of tallest players in National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball
• Health issues in athletics
• College basketball in the United States