Wrapping Up the Westchester Knicks 2025-26 Season
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by Warren Rosenberg, MetroSports Magazine - March 28, 2026
The Westchester Knicks, the official NBA G League affiliate of the New York Knicks, closed out their 2025-26 season with a close win, 123-121, over the visiting Windy City Bulls on their home court at the Westchester County Center. Although they closed out the season with a three-game winning streak, the regular season record of 14-22 might be looked upon as a disappointment. On the positive side, the 2025–26 season was a dynamic and development-focused year for the Westchester Knicks, showcasing emerging talent, strong individual performances, and their continued role as a pipeline to the New York Knicks and other NBA teams.
While the team faced challenges in the standings at times, the 2025–26 season was defined less by wins and losses and more by player growth, high-scoring performances, and NBA readiness. The emergence of multiple young contributors reinforced Westchester’s importance as a proving ground for future NBA talent.
The 2025–26 season has been a transitional and development-focused year for the Westchester Knicks, the NBA G League affiliate of the New York Knicks. With a roster blending young prospects, two-way players, and returning G League contributors, the team has emphasized player growth over immediate results—reflected in both their record and on-court identity.
As the G League affiliate of the New York Knicks, Westchester continued to play a crucial developmental role. Players frequently moved between the G League and NBA roster, gaining valuable experience and contributing at both levels. Kolek’s same-day dual performance exemplified the seamless connection between the two teams.
Breakout Performances
One of the most memorable moments of the season came from rookie guard Tyler Kolek (#13), who delivered a spectacular 42-point, 11-assist performance in a win over the Greensboro Swarm. Impressively, he later appeared in an NBA game the same day, finishing with 53 total points across both contests, an extraordinary display of endurance and skill. He is the first player to achieve 40+ points and 10+ assists in Westchester history, totaling 53 points across both leagues in one day.
Young prospect Dink Pate (#1) also turned heads with a 31-point breakout game, highlighting his development into a serious NBA prospect thanks to improved shooting and all-around play. He emerged as perhaps the most intriguing talent on the roster. The 6’7” guard continues to build on his reputation as one of the youngest professionals in the G League pipeline.
Pate’s combination of size, ball-handling, and athleticism makes him a legitimate NBA prospect. His development—especially as a shooter—remains central to his long-term upside. Pate, a former top high-school prospect who skipped college to turn professional but is now considering going to college basketball instead of continuing on the NBA development track. During his final high school season, Pate averaged more than 20 points per game and earned District 13-4A Most Valuable Player honors. His impressive performances also led to selections to the University Interscholastic League All-Region and All-State teams. Because of his advanced skill level and NBA potential, he graduated from high school a year early to pursue a professional basketball path.
Instead of playing college basketball, Pate made a bold decision: he signed with the NBA G League Ignite in April 2023. The Ignite program was designed to develop elite prospects before they entered the NBA draft.
At just 17 years old, Pate became the youngest professional basketball player in United States history, surpassing the previous record held by Scoot Henderson. This milestone immediately drew national attention and placed Pate among the most intriguing young prospects in basketball.
Meanwhile, center Ariel Hukporti (#55)ndominated in a standout performance with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and strong defensive contributions, reinforcing the team’s depth of talent.
Donovan Williams, T-J Warren and Pacome Dadiet each finished the season averaging over 20 points per game with Williams positioned as the team’s leading scorer averaging over 23 points per game.
Off the court, the Westchester squad earned accolades as well. Westchester Knicks forward Isaiah Roby (#7), has been named the recipient of the 2025-26 NBA G League Community Assist Award for his commitment and impact within the Westchester County community throughout the season. His dedication to serving those in need makes him the first player in Westchester Knicks history to receive this honor and in recognition of his efforts, Roby will receive a $10,000 donation from the NBA G League to a charity of his choice.
Above: Isiaiah Roby doing what he does best, scoring. Photo - Warren Rosenberg. Below: Roby receiving his award from NBA G-League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim (left). Photo courtesy - Westchester Knicks
Among his contributions to local communities, Roby sponsored, organized, and participated in a Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution at the Mount Vernon Boys & Girls Club as part of the Season of Giving. Shortly after he partnered with the Garden of Dreams Foundation to visit The Children’s Village in Dobbs Ferry, a nationally recognized non-profit organization supporting youth facing significant life challenges, including foster care placement, family instability, and educational disruption.
The 2025–26 season for the Westchester Knicks was less about wins and more about player progression. With prospects like Dink Pate, Bryson Warren and others showing flashes of high-level ability, the team’s success will ultimately be measured by how many players can contribute at the NBA level.
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