The BYU basketball team’s 2020 recruiting class grew to four with the addition of Gideon George, coach Mark Pope announced Thursday. George joins Dallin Hall, who signed Wednesday, and Spencer Johnson and Richie Saunders, who signed in November.
George comes to Provo as a transfer from New Mexico Junior College. The 6-foot-6 forward from Minna, Nigeria, was named to the 2019-20 NJCAA All-Region V Team and the All-Western Junior College Athletic Conference Team in his sophomore season, while leading the Thunderbirds to a 23-9 record.
In his second season at New Mexico Junior College, George averaged 14.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 50.8% from the field and 36.1% from 3-point range.
“Gideon is one of the most genuine, sincere, dedicated, hardworking athletes that I've ever had the opportunity to recruit,” Pope said. “Growing up in Nigeria, he learned a work ethic and lives with a level of gratitude that is inspiring. He is an extraordinarily gifted athlete, a great teammate and we have high expectations for his growth and what he'll contribute here at BYU. He's going to be a fan favorite.”
While two of the four commits (Hall and Saunders) will be heading out on a church mission before enrolling at BYU in 2022-23, George will look to immediately start contributing to the Cougars and has two years of eligibility left.
