The New York Knicks are headed to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in over two decades, and at the heart of their postseason surge is a name familiar to college basketball fans: a former West Virginia University (WVU) standout who’s bringing Mountaineer toughness to Madison Square Garden.
The guard, known for his grit and leadership during his time under Bob Huggins in Morgantown, has become a cornerstone of the Knicks’ playoff push. Whether it’s clutch shot-making, relentless defense, or unshakable composure in crunch time, his presence on the court has galvanized a young and hungry Knicks roster.
In the decisive Game 6 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, the ex-WVU star poured in 24 points, dished out 7 assists, and grabbed 5 rebounds—doing a little bit of everything when it mattered most. More than the stats, it was his poise and leadership down the stretch that helped New York close out the series and punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals.
“He’s the heart of this team,” Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said after the game. “His energy, his edge—it’s contagious. He brings that Mountaineer mentality to everything he does.”
That mentality, forged in the rugged Big 12 Conference and sharpened under Huggins’ demanding system, has translated seamlessly to the NBA. Knicks fans have embraced the guard’s blue-collar approach, with chants of his name ringing through the Garden during the closing minutes of the playoff clincher.
WVU fans are watching with pride too. Social media lit up with messages from Mountaineer Nation, celebrating their former star’s success and drawing a clear line from Morgantown to Manhattan. “Once a Mountaineer, always a Mountaineer,” one fan tweeted. “We see you shining in the Garden!”
As the Knicks prepare for the Eastern Conference Finals, they’ll lean even more on their battle-tested guard.