Georgios Papagiannis: What Does He Bring?

Lots of people become infatuated with size, but Papagiannis brings much more to the table than his 7’1″ frame. The reason he is highly touted and has 5 stars is because he has a unique combination of size, mobility, intangibles, and skill. He also has a solid frame weighing around 260 pounds. On all the tape that I have seen on him, it is apparent that he is getting more and more comfortable with his size and learning how to use it. He moves smoothly and has great awareness in the half court offense. He is comfortable running sets, working the the pick and roll, and the pick and pop. He has good hands and keeps the ball high off the catch. One play in the video below highlights how well he could fit into the high-post offense. Pay attention at the 1:35 mark. Georgios starts on the opposite block and as the ball is rotated, he sets up a beautiful cross screen, and times his cut perfectly. He then catches it cleanly and pivots for an easy dunk.

Some may say this is a simple play, and I agree, but it is one that takes timing and a willingness to work off the ball. This play is built into NC State’s fast break attack. Big-G could get at least two dunks a game off of this action. Our big men rarely got any dunks off of this throughout last season.

Not only does he show a great touch around the basket, but he is willing to get physical while fighting for position and for rebounds. The thing that he does well that will bode well in college, is how he uses his feet to get open. He doesn’t use his hands to fight for position which means he will not get called for as many fouls. On the defensive end Papagianni is a game changer, as he uses his length and timing to disrupt any shot that is in his area. What I have noticed is that he does a solid job on help side without selling out. There is no question that this kid has an advanced skill set and would be a difference maker for the Pack.

If Gottfried can land Big-G then State should be able make it back to the dance without question. He is that good. However, there will be an adjustment period for him in the beginning of the season no matter what school he picks. Hopefully he will be sold on playing in the ACC and appreciate the fact that Gottfried made the trip across the pond to visit him. We will have to wait and see where he chooses to play this coming season.