NEW YORK — The 2026 NBA Draft opened at Barclays Center on Thursday, with Commissioner Adam Silver presiding as all 30 teams made first-round selections. The New York Knicks held the No. 24 overall pick.

The Knicks' late selection reflected a strong 2025-26 season that placed them in the upper tier of the Eastern Conference. Mock drafts by USA Today and other outlets projected a range of perimeter and frontcourt prospects for New York at No. 24.

The franchise entered the draft with limited capital and a roster built to contend immediately. Management was expected to target either an immediate rotation contributor or a player who could be moved as part of a larger deal.

The draft came during a busy offseason that has already seen significant movement across the league, including the trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat. Front offices weighed roster needs against free-agency plans for July as teams finalized trades involving picks and players throughout the night.

The second round was scheduled to follow on a separate broadcast.