The New York Knicks, renowned for their affinity towards former Villanova Wildcats players, have added another former college basketball star to their roster. However, this latest addition does not hail from Villanova, marking a departure from their usual recruitment pattern. The Knicks, who already boast four ex-Villanova players including Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges (acquired in a trade from the Brooklyn Nets), have now signed former Kansas Jayhawks guard Kevin McCullar Jr. on a two-way contract.
McCullar’s college career is notable for his versatile skills on both ends of the court. He began his collegiate journey with the Texas Tech Red Raiders, where he played for three seasons. During his time at Texas Tech, McCullar averaged 8.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.4 steals over 25.8 minutes per game, spanning 78 games with 49 starts. His defensive prowess earned him a spot on the Big 12 all-defensive team in 2023, and he was also named to the third-team all-Big 12 the same year.
After transferring to Kansas, McCullar’s performance reached new heights under coach Bill Self. In his senior year, McCullar averaged 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals over 34.2 minutes per game across 26 games, all of which he started. His standout performances included a career-high 34 points on 61.1% shooting in a victory over Yale on December 22. McCullar’s contributions were pivotal, earning him a first-team all-Big 12 selection for the 2023-24 season.
Despite his impressive college stats, McCullar faced a significant challenge leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft due to a knee injury that prevented him from participating in individual drills for NBA teams. The injury, which required surgical intervention, sidelined him towards the end of his final college season. Nevertheless, McCullar remained optimistic about his recovery and future prospects. He assured reporters at the NBA Draft Combine that his knee was structurally sound and that he was on an upward trajectory in terms of rehabilitation.
Initially selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 56th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, McCullar’s rights were traded to the Knicks on draft night. The Knicks’ decision to sign him on a two-way contract means he will split his time between the NBA team and their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. This arrangement allows McCullar to gain valuable playing experience and continue his development in a professional setting.
The Knicks have shown a strategic interest in integrating versatile players like McCullar who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 212 pounds, McCullar’s size and skill set make him a valuable addition to the team. His ability to score, rebound, assist, and defend offers the Knicks a flexible player who can be utilized in various roles as needed.
With McCullar joining the Knicks, the team still has one remaining two-way slot open. Currently, Ariel Hukporti is also on a two-way contract with the Knicks, and the team has extended a qualifying offer to Jacob Toppin. The Knicks’ roster strategy indicates a focus on developing young talent through the two-way contract system, which allows for greater roster flexibility and the opportunity to nurture potential future stars within their own system.
McCullar’s journey from college to the NBA reflects his resilience and adaptability. Despite the setback of his knee injury, he has managed to secure a spot in the NBA, showcasing his determination and potential. As he continues to recover and improve, McCullar’s presence in the Knicks’ lineup could provide a significant boost, especially given the team’s reliance on players who can contribute across various aspects of the game.
Overall, Kevin McCullar Jr.’s signing represents a calculated move by the New York Knicks, blending their established preference for seasoned college players with a willingness to diversify their sources of talent. As McCullar embarks on his professional career, he joins a team that values his multifaceted abilities and offers him the platform to develop further.
