Everyone and his brother has given Paul George props for his on-court performance. He’s a two-time NBA All Star and a franchise player for the team who was the favorite to win last year’s NBA Championship. I don’t need to reiterate the basketball accolades of PaulStar. I need to give him props for the way he’s handled adversity at the age of 24.
It hasn’t been a great year for Paul George. As a life-long Pacers fan, I’ve seen franchise players deal with hardship. Hell, someone burned Reggie Miller’s house to the ground. Paul George, however, has dealt with more publicity and career setbacks in the past year than I’d wish on anyone. Between various off-court allegations that I have no desire to get into and his devastating injury with the US National Team, George has hit a pivotal moment in his career.
Honestly, most people would give up, but Paul George isn’t “most people.”
To the critics, it’s easy to judge. Has George made some mistakes off the court? Definitely. Have we all made dumb mistakes in our early 20’s? Yes. The difference is that most of us have the luxury of not being watched by millions of people.
Paul George is my age. It blows my mind sometimes. Paul George is 24 years old and has managed to handle some extremely trying times in a very humble and gracious way. If I were in his position, I would have quit.
Plenty of people are doubting Paul George’s comeback, but I’m not because he’s resilient.
It’s only been a couple weeks since he ditched the walking boot, and PG13 is already getting shots up. Some say it’s hard to know how he’ll respond to this adversity. I think we’ve seen him respond to adversity time and time again, and this time will be no different. Mark my words – Paul George is going to come back better than ever. 20 years from now, we’ll be raising the number 13 into the rafters at Banker’s Life – next to multiple championship banners – and “El Trece’s” broken leg will be stuff of legend.
The only doubt I have in Paul? I don’t think he can top this.
- Paul George – AKA “El Trece” - October 30, 2014