Paul George named first-ever recipient of Mel Daniels Award
Indiana Pacers forward Paul George is terrific with the media. So says the Indianapolis Chapter of Professional Basketball Writers Association, which announced today that George has been honored as the inaugural recipient of the 2015-16 Mel Daniels Award.
The award is named after the late Mel Daniels, who was a humble and generous teammate with the Pacers and displayed those same attributes with the media. The two-time Most Valuable Player in the ABA and starting center on three championship teams maintained a cooperative and honest approach with reporters throughout his six seasons with the team. As a scout with the Pacers, he continued to be an accessible source for reporters seeking inside knowledge and offered reliable insight to those writing about his former teammates or coach. He never sought attention, yet never refused to cooperate with those seeking information.
George was selected as the Pacers' player who best represents the professionalism and cooperation with local members of the media as Daniels did during his illustrious career. In the 2015-16 season, George has been the go-to guy for reporters, making himself available for thoughtful interviews after both good nights and bad. He also is one of the rare star veterans who can be interviewed after both after shootarounds and afternoon practices.
