Former Knicks Lottery Pick Kevin Knox Leaves NBA for Europe, Joins Three Ex-NBA Players

Sporting News · 2026-10-29
Former Knicks Lottery Pick Kevin Knox Leaves NBA for Europe, Joins Three Ex-NBA Players

Kevin Knox, the ninth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, has signed with a European team, marking a significant step in his professional career. Knox, who played for the Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, and Portland Trail Blazers, struggled to find a consistent role in the NBA, averaging 7.4 points per game over six seasons. His move to Europe reflects a growing trend of former first-round picks seeking opportunities overseas to revitalize their careers. The European club he joins already features three other former NBA players, creating a competitive environment that could help Knox regain his confidence and showcase his scoring ability. This transition matters because it highlights the increasing globalization of basketball and the challenges young players face in securing long-term NBA roster spots. Knox's departure may open doors for other fringe NBA players to consider European leagues as viable alternatives. Ultimately, his success abroad could determine whether he gets another shot at the NBA or establishes himself as a star in Europe.