George King, former collegiate basketball star, has lived a fortunate, adventurous, and successful career. Beginning at the University of Colorado, he has since carved a path to the Basketball Africa League (BAL). Renowned for his toughness and will, King has overcome much adversity and opportunity since transferring to CU in 2015. He has played in almost every continent, and in leagues such as Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) and the United States’ G League. Over the course of his career, he has maintained deep relationships with NBA teams.
King initially transferred to the University of Colorado from the Division II University of Colorado Colorado Springs in 2015. The relocation would prove to be the most important career decision he ever made. After redshirting his first season at URI, he was hell bent on making his mark on the court. He capped his collegiate career with a phenomenal showing in the 2018 Reese’s College All-Star Game. There, he averaged 21 points, nine rebounds and three blocks per game, winning the event’s Most Valuable Player award.
Following graduation, King looked for opportunities in professional basketball. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and signed, but released on October 8, 2018, just days after being picked. This setback could not deter him. He later signed with Illawarra Hawks of the Australian NBL, appearing briefly during the 2022-2024 season. Sadly, his time in Australia was brought to an early end due to a leg injury suffered on 20 November 2022.
In 2021, King tried once again for the NBA by signing with the G League’s Ontario Clippers. However, he struggled to adjust to his new surroundings and was eventually waived by the Bengals on December 22, 2023. In looking back on this experience, King had some powerful things to say about the importance of pushing boundaries and experiencing failure.
“I chose Dallas. You got to take risks,” – George King
Even after being waived, King refused to let the odds defeat him. He looked international, playing in Israel, the Philippines, and Lebanon. His international experience only served to deepen his perspective and sharpen his skills in production. Most recently, King suited up for Egypt’s Al Ittihad in the BAL, where he had a tremendous impact.
On April 5, 2025, King opened the BAL season with a strong performance, leading his team to a 71-60 victory over host FUS Rabat. His transition into this new league has allowed him to showcase his abilities while connecting with former colleagues like Derrick White during offseason workouts and football games in Boulder.
King’s journey has been anything but straightforward. He was frank about becoming a change agent, an adapt-or-die mentality that pretty much dominated his career.
“I had to stretch myself because I was so comfortable and knew the plays with the Clippers… I took this big leap of faith and I failed. I failed, but I swung for the fence and I missed,” – George King
His fierce resolve is evident as he goes after his dreams on the basketball court. Yet at the same time, he feels deep gratitude for all the memories he’s made along the way. He recalls advice from his mentor, former NBA player Jamal Crawford, who emphasized the significance of both financial stability and cherished memories in professional sports.
“…after 19 years [playing professionally] there are only two things you can take with you out of this game. It’s your money and your memories,” – George King
Now at 30, King is looking back on all he’s accomplished. Chris is proud that his current career path has taken him to five continents so far—all while working in the field he loves.
“Currently right now, if I decide to walk away from the game, I can say I’ve been on five continents at 30 years old. I’ve pretty much seen the world doing what I love. I’m thankful for that,” – George King
Through it all, King is still committed to that young dream of one day making it to the NBA.
“But there is also still that little kid in me whose dream to be an NBA player still is in me to this day,” – George King
His dedication to the game does not stop there, as he recently signed with Al Ittihad and is helping them to make their mark in the BAL. He’s grateful that what he learned will serve him, yes, but even more so those who hope to take similar journeys.
Given the expected recognition for quality and organization of the BAL, King thinks … As that continues to develop, more players with NBA experience will be attracted to it. He expressed confidence in the league’s future.
“And obviously, I did my due diligence before I came here… It was easy for me to come here,” – George King
He pointed out how well organized and structured the BAL is shaping up to be and how it truly gives players an opportunity to excel and succeed.
“It’s new. Five years old. Once more guys catch wind of the BAL and how they do things… you’ll see multiple faces who have NBA resumes on them in the BAL,” – George King
King’s relationship with current San Antonio Spurs guard Derrick White has become an inspiration to younger Colorado players. With each step up the ladder, White’s story is an inspiration that dreams can come true, even when faced with life’s hurdles.
“He’s not an overbearing specimen physically… it’s going to empower these young kids who dream to be an NBA player in Colorado,” – George King
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