The Knicks sign center Ariel Hukporti to a two-way contract. NBA insider Michael Scotto tweeted the announcement.
Hukporti was the No. 58 overall pick of the 2024 NBA Draft. The Dallas Mavericks initially selected him.
The Knicks acquired Hukporti’s draft rights from the Mavericks. In exchange, the Knicks traded the rights to Melvin Ajinca.
Hukporti started his professional career with Riesen Ludwigsburg. He made his debut on December 12, 2018.
During the 2019–20 season, Hukporti averaged three points and 2.3 rebounds per game. He played 7.9 minutes per game.
Hukporti signed with Nevezis Kedainiai of the Lithuanian Basketball League in 2020. He then joined Melbourne United in 2021.
At Melbourne United, Hukporti was a Next Star signing. He suffered an Achilles tendon injury in the 2022 pre-season.
Due to the injury, Hukporti missed the entire 2022–23 NBL season. He recommitted to Melbourne United for the 2023–24 season.
On April 1, 2024, Hukporti returned to Ludwigsburg. He signed for the rest of the 2023–24 Basketball Bundesliga season.
Hukporti’s journey has taken him across several leagues and countries. Now, he aims to make an impact in the NBA.
The two-way contract allows Hukporti to split time between the Knicks and their G League affiliate.
Hukporti’s performance in the Basketball Without Borders camp earned him MVP honors.
