SAN ANTONIO – The New York Knicks have had a busy week retooling their roster. Their future plans now include a former Wagner Thunderbird.
New York selected Kansas guard Kevin McCullar Jr. with its No. 56 pick during Thursday’s second round of the 2024 NBA Draft.
Yessir another Tbird, Kevin McCullar, just got drafted #56 into the @NBA !!!!!!! #GoBeGreat phoenix drafted him with a proposed trade to the @nyknicks @Kevin_McCullar @AlamoCityHoops1 @VVinzetta @MaxSportsSA @JISD_ATHLETICS pic.twitter.com/zONIreNlUn
— Wagner Boys Basketball (@WagnerboysBball) June 27, 2024
McCullar, who began his college career at Texas Tech before transferring to KU for his final two seasons, averaged a career-high 18.3 points, six rebounds and 4.1 assists in 2023-24.
Late last season, a bone bruise injury kept him from suiting up for the Jayhawks during the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Kansas lost to Gonzaga in the second round.
Despite the injury, McCullar, listed as 6-foot-7, was selected as a 2023-24 All-Big 12 Conference First Team performer.
The Knicks are somewhat familiar with what McCullar can bring to the table.
Two years ago, while still a Red Raider, McCullar initially declared for the 2022 NBA Draft and worked out for the Knicks before returning to college and transferring to Kansas.
Texas Tech’s Kevin McCullar just finished a workout with the New York Knicks, he told @Stockrisers. Gaining a lot of draft buzz, while still mulling the NBA or a return to college (Gonzaga, KU finalists).
— Jake (@jakeweingarten) May 12, 2022
New York’s selection of McCullar comes on the heels of several notable moves that have sent shockwaves throughout the NBA.
The Knicks traded for Brooklyn Nets small forward Mikal Bridges, a 19.6 point-per-game scorer in 2023-24 and a Villanova alum, to reunite him with former Wildcat teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo in New York.
Months after acquiring him in a mid-season trade, ESPN reported New York will also bring back guard OG Anunoby on a five-year contract extension worth $212.5 million.
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