Georgia Tech Basketball Player Previews: #35 F Kristian Sjolund

The true-freshman forward could provide Georgia Tech with a strong stretch-four option off the bench.

Kristian Sjolund is entering his true freshman season at Georgia Tech this fall and is looking to be an immediate impact player for the Yellow Jackets. That being said, Josh Pastner has a few decisions to be made on who will be redshirted this season, among the options, is Sjolund.

If Sjolund doesn’t redshirt this season, he will give the Yellow Jackets a solid stretch-four option off the bench. In the Yellow Jackets, exhibition last Saturday against Florida Tech, we got an opportunity to what Sjolund could provide for the Yellow Jackets.

During the game, Sjolund saw 17 minutes of action and overall performed well against Florida Tech. The Norway born (went to high school in Texas) forward ended up the game with 10 points and three rebounds, and a single assist. His 10-points were the third most on the team for the Yellow Jackets and the highest among the Yellow Jackets freshmen.

During the game, Sjolund really favored the outside shot, taking seven shots (making two) from beyond the arch. A smooth shot, Sjolund looks like a true dynamic stretch four scoring option for the Yellow Jackets and as he physically matures should be able to gain more of a presence in the in the paint as well. At 6-foot-7 and 200-pounds, there is plenty of room for him to grow over the next few years.

The Yellow Jackets have had success with forwards and centers from Texas over the history of the program and Sjolund hopes to be the next Texan to make his mark on the program. But only time will tell when he will be able to do so for the Yellow Jackets.