Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Kings' Keegan Murray Selected to NBA Rising Stars Game

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Kings
By Logan Struck | Last updated 1/30/24

With the 4th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, the Sacramento Kings took a chance on Keegan Murray when many fans doubted the decision. A year later, Murray has blossomed into a two-way star, becoming one of the league's best defenders and shooters.

Murray's impressive play has begun to gain recognition across the league, as the 23-year-old forward has been selected as an NBA Rising Star for All-Star weekend.

The 2024 Panini Rising Stars ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/sThgZNvwxV
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 30, 2024

The sophomore wing will represent Sacramento in the NBA's revamped Rising Stars Game, as the league changed the format last season. Three honorary coaches will draft between the 21 rookies and sophomores, creating three teams plus the fourth team compiled of the G League's best. The four teams will compete in a mini-tournament, with seven players coming out as champions.

Murray has had a phenomenal sophomore season, following up an over-achieving rookie year. The second-year wing is averaging 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, but the most significant stride has come on the defensive side of the ball.

Murray has catapulted himself into the conversation of best perimeter defenders despite that not being a strong suit a season ago.

Among players who have guarded at least 40 isolation possessions, Keegan Murray has allowed the FEWEST points per possession (0.51)

Opponents are 7/43 (16.3%!!!) against Keegan in ISO. His vast improvement in on-ball defense, screen navigation, & physicality have been noteworthy pic.twitter.com/5QeU69wrBD
— NBA University (@NBA_University) January 30, 2024

Murray being recognized by the NBA as one of the elite young players in the league is wonderful, and his talent on both ends will continue to improve.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Kings and was syndicated with permission.

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