After two seasons with the Texas Longhorns, versatile forward Kai Jones’ professional career is officially underway after being selected by the New York Knicks with the No. 19 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
However, the pick is expected to convey to the Charlotte Hornets via trade.
Jones become the first Longhorn selected in this year’s draft and the fifth in the last six drafts:
- Myles Turner — 11th overall in 2016
- Jarrett Allen — 22nd overall in 2017
- Mohamed Bamba — 6th overall in 2018
- Jaxson Hayes — 8th overall in 2019
- Kai Jones — 19th overall in 2021
The reigning Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year, Jones was a key presence in a Texas front court that also featured former five-star freshman Greg Brown and senior center Jericho Sims.