Guided by vets and Thibodeau’s structure, Hukporti sets his sights on impact over stats.
New York Knicks big man Ariel Hukporti is making the most of his time with the club. In a recent interview with NBL media, the former Melbourne United center credited veterans like Mitchell Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, as well as his time under recently fired head coach Tom Thibodeau, for shaping his defensive-first mentality and team-first approach.
“I was watching the vets—KAT, Mitchell Robinson—just what they’re doing on the defensive end,” Hukporti said. “I’m a defensive big, so I was just looking at what I can do to help the team.”
Hukporti singled out Robinson for his mentorship and dominance on the glass. “He gave me a lot of tips. He gets offensive rebounds against four guys, and I’m like: how can I help the team like that?”
That mindset translated into a standout Summer League performance against the Boston Celtics, where the Incredible Huk logged nine points, 13 rebounds (six offensive), three blocks, and two steals. That kind of energy and physicality could earn him more rotation minutes.
Hukporti (7-feet, 240 lbs) continues to progress after a frustrating setback: a torn meniscus in his left knee during his first NBA start on February 26 against the Philadelphia 76ers. But despite the obstacle, the 23-year-old remained proactive. “When I was hurt, I was watching the game, scouting, analyzing, and just trying to find a way to help my team,” he said. “I’m not a selfish guy—I put my team first always.”
Now healthy, Hukporti is eager to continue learning under newly hired head coach Mike Brown, whose reputation for defensive intensity complements what Hukporti absorbed from Thibodeau. “I feel like Thibs gave me great structure on how to be a pro,” he said. “Mike Brown is a great guy, a great coach, and I’m excited to learn more and just get better.”
While scoring may not be his calling card, Hukporti is laser-focused on the details that make an impact, like setting sharp screens and keeping possessions alive. “The NBA is all about spacing,” he said. “Can I get another possession for my team? Can I set that screen right here so he can get a pocket three? That’s what I’m looking at.”
With another international bigman Guerschon Yabusele joining the Knicks’ second unit this summer, Hukporti isn’t worried about sharing minutes or touches in the frontcourt.
“Being a superstar in my own role. That’s what I’m trying to be.”
Watch the full interview below: