Knicks Add Ex-Nets Forward on One-Year Deal: 'Great Fit'

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 15th 2025 at 22:43 GMT by Heavy.com

New York Knicks add Nigerian‑American guard Tosan Evbuomwan to their training‑camp roster

The New York Knicks have announced the signing of Tosan Evbuomwan, a 2024 NBA Draft prospect who was selected in the second round by the franchise. The 6‑foot‑5‑inch guard, who hails from Houston and played collegiately for the University of Texas, will join the Knicks for training camp under a two‑way contract that allows him to split time between the NBA club and its G‑League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. While Evbuomwan will not earn a full NBA roster spot immediately, the move signals the Knicks’ intent to cultivate depth in the backcourt and to add a versatile defender to their rotation.

A quick glance at Evbuomwan’s credentials

Tosan Evbuomwan, born on March 27, 2000, is a Nigerian‑American who grew up in Houston, Texas. He attended the Episcopal School of Texas before committing to the Longhorns in 2019. Over four seasons, Evbuomwan developed into a reliable two‑way guard, known for his length, defensive instincts, and willingness to play both the point and shooting guard positions.

• College performance – In his senior year (2023‑24), Evbuomwan averaged 12.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game. His 45% three‑point shooting and 2.2 blocks per game showcased his ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim. The Longhorns advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, with Evbuomwan contributing key defensive plays and timely scoring off the bench.

• Draft profile – Scouts praised Evbuomwan’s basketball IQ, footwork, and ability to switch onto smaller guards—skills that fit well in modern NBA systems. He was projected as a second‑round lottery pick, and the Knicks confirmed that they selected him 47th overall on draft night.

• Physical attributes – Standing 6’5” and weighing 190 pounds, Evbuomwan’s wingspan and lateral quickness give him an advantage against many contemporary guard matchups. He can defend both the perimeter and the low post, a trait valued by New York’s coaching staff.

Signing details and team strategy

The Knicks offered Evbuomwan a two‑way contract worth $845,000 for the 2024‑25 season. Under the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, the player can spend up to 45 days with the Knicks during the regular season while the remainder of his playing time will be spent with Westchester. The two‑way deal also includes a training‑camp invitation and a guaranteed first‑round salary if he is called up to the NBA roster.

Knicks general manager Rafael Hinojosa commented on the signing: “Tosan brings a lot of hustle and defensive discipline that we’re excited to develop. He’s an excellent fit for the type of players we’re looking to add depth and versatility to our backcourt.” The Knicks have been actively building a young core that can compete on both ends of the floor, and Evbuomwan’s defensive tools complement the more offensive‑heavy skill sets of teammates like RJ Barrett and Julius Randle.

The coaching staff, led by Tom Thibodeau, highlighted the importance of adding players who can contribute defensively in a system that emphasizes strong perimeter pressure and pick‑and‑roll defense. Evbuomwan’s experience playing in high‑pressure college games and his proven ability to protect the rim make him an ideal candidate for the Knicks’ defensive scheme.

A Nigerian‑American success story

Evbuomwan’s journey reflects the growing impact of Nigerian‑American talent in the NBA. From his early days in Houston, where he lived with his mother and Nigerian father, to his standout performances at the University of Texas, the guard has been a role model for young players in both the United States and Nigeria. He has spoken openly about his love for music—particularly hip‑hop and Afrobeats—and his commitment to using his platform to give back to his hometown community.

During his time at Texas, Evbuomwan was named to the All‑Big 12 Defensive Team and earned the NCAA Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2023‑24 season. He also served as a team captain in his final year, illustrating leadership qualities that the Knicks hope will translate into the locker room.

What the Knicks’ roster looks like moving forward

With Evbuomwan’s signing, the Knicks are expanding their guard depth beyond the usual roster slots. He will compete for playing time against veterans like Jalen Brunson and emerging prospects such as Isaiah Brunk in the preseason. The G‑League affiliate, Westchester Knicks, will offer him ample minutes to refine his skills, specifically his ball‑handling under pressure and three‑point shooting accuracy.

The Knicks’ current roster is built around a blend of seasoned veterans and youth, with a focus on defense. By adding a versatile defender who can also contribute offensively from the perimeter, the Knicks bolster their flexibility in rotation adjustments, especially during playoff runs.

A forward‑looking perspective

While Evbuomwan’s two‑way contract keeps him from securing a full NBA contract immediately, the Knicks have provided a clear path for progression. The franchise has a history of developing two‑way players into full‑time contributors; for instance, Kris Dunn and Sergio Rodríguez both began on two‑way contracts before earning long‑term NBA deals.

For Evbuomwan, the summer league and preseason will be critical. He must prove that he can hold his own against established NBA guards while continuing to improve his shooting efficiency. The Knicks’ coaching staff will also be evaluating how he adapts to the physicality of the NBA and whether he can maintain the defensive intensity that made him stand out at Texas.

In summary

The New York Knicks’ signing of Tosan Evbuomwan underscores the franchise’s commitment to developing depth through defensive specialists. Evbuomwan’s solid college career, defensive prowess, and versatility align with the Knicks’ strategic emphasis on perimeter defense and switching capabilities. With a two‑way contract that allows for both NBA and G‑League play, the guard has the opportunity to grow into a valuable role player for the Knicks while continuing to hone the skills that earned him a spot in the NBA draft.

As the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season, fans will be watching Evbuomwan’s progress closely—an exciting prospect who could help the team achieve its goal of building a cohesive, defensively solid backcourt that complements its growing roster of talent.