The 10 Greatest Moments of Paul George’s Career

Paul George Guards Derrick Rose in Playoffs – April, 2011

Former Indiana coach Jim O’Brien never cared for rookies, and Paul George was no exception. Under JO’B, PG bounced in and out of the rotation and struggled to find his identity as a player. O’Brien was fired around midseason, however, and once Frank Vogel took over, he urged George to concentrate on his defense and use that end of the floor as the starting point for developing his NBA career.

Vogel led the Pacers to a 20-18 finish and a playoff appearance as the 8th seed in the East.

The team played the Bulls in the first round, led by then-MVP Derrick Rose, who dropped 39 points and shot 21 free-throws in Game 1. At the time, George Hill was still in San Antonio, so Vogel decided to call on George to try to corral Rose.

The long-armed rookie was still raw, but he was Vogel’s best shot.

It only sort of worked, as Rose went on to average almost 28 points per game in the series, but George did have a couple moments against Rose, including this block.

In terms of Paul George feeling like he belonged, however, it was instrumental to his career. Vogel’s assignment was the kind of faithful demonstration that gave George a chance to show promise and build confidence.

The possessions when he did shut down Rose were his coming-out party and the first glimpse we got of all the amazing defense that was yet to come.

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