UNITED STATES—On Wednesday, April 24, Paul George was named the most improved player of the NBA. All-star shooting guard Paul George received his KIA award for his stellar play throughout the season for the No. 3 seeded Indiana Pacers.
With Danny Granger out with an injury for the majority of the season, someone on the team had to take the big shots. George decided to shoulder the team to various wins while improving his overall play as an offensive player and making his first all-star appearance. He received 311 of the possible 1,080 points including 52 first place votes to garner the award.
George came into this season averaging 10 points per game along with four rebounds, two assists and one steal for the Pacers. During the 2013 season, his stats went to 17.4 points per game, 7.6 rebounds per game, five assists and two steals increasing dramatically in each of the statistical categories.
This category of awards began in 2008. Larry Sander from Milwaukee came in third place and Greivis Vasquez of the Hornets came in second place. Paul George and the Pacers are currently battling in the playoffs against the No. 6 seeded Atlanta Hawks. The Pacers lead the best of seven game series 1-0.
By Luis Cuevas
