Kevin Knox is a name that basketball fans have been increasingly hearing, whether it’s in the context of the NBA or his past experiences in college basketball. Known for his exceptional skills, height, and versatility on the court, Knox’s journey from a highly-rated high school prospect to a professional NBA player has been nothing short of fascinating. This article will explore his early life, career trajectory, strengths, and future prospects, all while answering the top questions people have been searching about him on Google.
Early Life and Background of Kevin Knox
Kevin Deandre Knox II was born on August 11, 1999, in the city of Phoenix, Arizona. Raised in a basketball-loving family, it was no surprise that Kevin developed an early interest in the sport. His father, Kevin Knox Sr., had played basketball in college and served as an important influence on Knox’s early development.
Knox attended Pinnacle High School in Phoenix, where he emerged as one of the most highly sought-after basketball prospects in the country. In his senior year, he averaged 30.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. His performance earned him several accolades, including McDonald’s All-American honors, and positioned him as one of the top high school players in the nation.
Kevin Knox’s College Career at the University of Kentucky
Following his successful high school career, Knox made the decision to commit to the University of Kentucky in 2017, where he played for Coach John Calipari. His freshman season at Kentucky further solidified his status as a top NBA prospect. Knox was an immediate contributor, averaging 15.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 44.5% from the field.
Despite Kentucky’s early exit from the NCAA Tournament in 2018, Knox’s individual performances earned him several All-SEC honors. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his size and athleticism, made him one of the most intriguing prospects for the 2018 NBA Draft.
Kevin Knox’s NBA Journey: New York Knicks Draft and Development
In the 2018 NBA Draft, Kevin Knox was selected by the New York Knicks with the 9th overall pick, marking the beginning of his professional career. His arrival in New York was met with high expectations, and while his early seasons have been a mix of ups and downs, he has shown flashes of the potential that made him a top prospect.
2018-2019 Season: A Promising Rookie Year
Knox’s rookie season with the Knicks began with excitement. He quickly became one of the key pieces of the Knicks’ rebuilding project. Over the course of his first season, he averaged 12.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. His scoring ability and flashes of playmaking skills were evident, but his consistency and defensive ability were areas that needed improvement.
Despite the Knicks’ struggles in the standings, Knox showed his potential as a scorer, especially when he was allowed the freedom to operate in isolation or spot up from beyond the arc. His confidence and athleticism were two key aspects that helped him stand out in a crowded rookie class.
2020-2021: Growing Pains and Adjustments
Knox’s second season saw him taking on a larger role with the Knicks, but he also faced more challenges as the team made strides towards being more competitive. The 2020-2021 season marked a turning point for the Knicks as they made the playoffs, but Knox’s role in the rotation was inconsistent. He showed flashes of his potential, but also struggled with efficiency at times, particularly from the three-point line.
Knox averaged 8.6 points and 3.1 rebounds during the 2020-2021 season, but it was clear that his development would take time. The Knicks were focused on building a competitive team, and Knox’s progress was a topic of conversation throughout the year.
Playing Style and Strengths
Kevin Knox’s game is marked by several key attributes that make him a unique and intriguing player. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall and weighing around 215 pounds, Knox possesses the size and athleticism to play multiple positions. Here are some aspects of his playing style and strengths:
Scoring Versatility: Knox is primarily known for his scoring ability. He can score in a variety of ways, whether it’s driving to the basket, hitting mid-range jump shots, or stretching the floor with his three-point shooting. His ability to create his own shot and his offensive versatility make him a valuable asset to any team.
Athleticism: Knox’s athleticism is another standout quality. He has the explosiveness to finish at the rim, and his ability to leap above defenders allows him to be a constant threat on fast breaks. His quickness and agility also make him a tough matchup for defenders, particularly when he attacks the basket.
Defensive Potential: While Knox’s defense has been a point of criticism throughout his career, there is still considerable potential. His size and athleticism give him the tools to be a disruptive force on defense, particularly as he improves his understanding of defensive schemes. If Knox can refine his defensive awareness and become more consistent on that end of the floor, he could become a more complete player in the future.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite his undeniable talent, Kevin Knox has faced several challenges in his NBA career that have hindered his development. One of the most significant hurdles has been his consistency. Knox has had stretches where he has played at a high level, but he has also had periods where he has struggled with shooting efficiency and making an impact on both ends of the court.
Shooting Consistency: Knox’s shooting has been an area of concern, particularly from three-point range. While he has shown that he can shoot from the perimeter, his consistency has been lacking at times. In his rookie season, he shot 34.3% from beyond the arc, and although he has shown improvement, he still has room to grow in this area.
Defense and Basketball IQ: Another area for improvement has been his defensive play. Knox’s size and athleticism make him capable of being a solid defender, but his basketball IQ and defensive awareness need work. He has been prone to mental lapses and struggles with staying in front of his man on defense. Developing better decision-making and defensive instincts will be key to Knox reaching his full potential.
What’s Next for Kevin Knox?
As of 2025, Kevin Knox is still a young player with a lot of potential. He has shown flashes of brilliance but remains a work in progress. Moving forward, his development will largely depend on his ability to refine his skills, particularly in terms of shooting consistency and defense.
Knox is currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers after a trade from the New York Knicks in 2023. The change in scenery may provide him with a fresh opportunity to grow and contribute in new ways. As the Blazers continue their rebuilding process, Knox could emerge as a key player in their future plans.
Can Kevin Knox Become an All-Star?
The question on the minds of many basketball fans is whether Kevin Knox has the potential to become an NBA All-Star. While he has shown great promise, his journey to stardom will require continued improvement in multiple areas of his game. If he can develop his shooting consistency and become a more well-rounded defender, there is no doubt that he has the tools to reach an All-Star level.
FAQs
What happened to Kevin Knox?
Kevin Knox’s NBA career has seen ups and downs. After a promising rookie season with the Knicks, his playing time and performance declined in subsequent seasons. He was traded and waived multiple times, including by the Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers. He is now a free agent and may explore opportunities in the NBA, G-League, or overseas.
What is Kevin Knox’s NBA draft history?
Kevin Knox was selected by the New York Knicks with the 9th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. This selection was considered a high-risk, high-reward pick due to his potential as a scorer and athlete. Knox was a part of the Knicks’ rebuilding phase after being drafted.
Has Kevin Knox played for other NBA teams?
Yes, after his time with the New York Knicks, Knox was traded to the Atlanta Hawks during the 2021-2022 NBA season. He spent a brief period there and then moved to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023. Throughout his NBA career, Knox has been part of several teams in the league, contributing to their rotation and developing as a player.
What is Kevin Knox’s playing style?
Kevin Knox is known for his scoring ability, especially as a shooter. He is capable of scoring both inside and from beyond the arc. His athleticism allows him to finish at the rim, and his height gives him an advantage as a wing player. While his defense and basketball IQ have been areas of improvement, Knox is a talented player with the potential to become more consistent over time.
Is Kevin Knox a good defender?
Kevin Knox’s defense has been a work in progress during his NBA career. Early in his career, he struggled with consistency on that side of the ball, but he has improved over time. His length and athleticism provide him with the tools to be a solid defender, especially in one-on-one situations and on the perimeter. However, his defensive consistency has been one of the areas where he has faced challenges.
In Summary
Kevin Knox remains a compelling figure in the NBA, an athletic and versatile forward with untapped potential. From his early promise at Kentucky to being a top-10 NBA Draft pick, his journey has been marked by moments of brilliance, challenges, and growth. Though he’s faced ups and downs across several teams, his ability to stretch the floor, score in bunches, and contribute off the bench keeps him relevant in today’s fast-paced league. As he continues to develop and mature as a player, Kevin Knox remains one to watch especially for teams seeking a skilled, high-upside wing. With the right system and continued focus, Knox’s best years in the NBA may still be ahead of him.
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