Landry Shamet, a prominent figure from Wichita State, is set to make history as he participates in the NBA Finals with the New York Knicks. This marks a significant achievement for both Shamet and his alma mater, as he joins an exclusive group of former Shocker players who have made it to this prestigious stage.
Wichita State’s NBA Legacy
The Knicks have a long-standing relationship with Wichita State, having employed more of its players than any other NBA team. Upcoming Game 1 of the NBA Finals also signifies Shamet’s emergence as the sixth former WSU player to compete for a championship.
Notable WSU Alumni in the NBA Finals
- Dave Stallworth: Played five seasons with the Knicks (1965-1975) and was part of the 1970 championship team.
- Nate Bowman: Contributed to the Knicks from 1967 to 1970, also part of the 1970 championship squad.
- Xavier McDaniel: Had a memorable season with New York in 1991-1992.
- Toure’ Murry: Played for the Knicks during the 2013-2014 season.
- Cleanthony Early: Represented New York from 2014 to 2016.
- Ron Baker: Became a fan favorite from 2016 to 2018.
Shamet’s Performance in the Playoffs
Throughout this playoff season, Shamet has demonstrated impressive skills, averaging 5.7 points in just over 13 minutes of play per game. His shooting from beyond the arc has been particularly notable, hitting 21 of 35 three-point attempts for an outstanding 60% success rate.
Key Stats from the Playoffs
- Made 20 of 29 three-pointers during an 11-game playoff winning streak (68.9%).
- Achieved 11 of 12 shooting from three-point range in the Eastern Conference Finals sweep of Cleveland.
Shamet’s remarkable performance has led to significant recognition from fans and former teammates alike. He played a pivotal role in one of the Knicks’ most dramatic comebacks, where he tied the game with a critical three-pointer and contributed to the overtime victory with another clutch shot.
The Unique Experience of Playing at Madison Square Garden
For athletes, playing at Madison Square Garden is considered a dream come true. Landry Shamet has vividly noted the palpable excitement from New York fans. As he interacts with the public, he appreciates the affection and support from fans who recognize him as part of the Knicks’ journey towards the finals.
Shamet’s NBA Journey
After declaring for the NBA draft early, Shamet was selected 26th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. His career has seen him play for multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards, before landing with the Knicks.
Shamet’s Influence and Future
This playoff success marks a defining moment in Shamet’s career, as he has played in the postseason in seven of his eight NBA seasons. He has secured nine playoff series victories and ranks among the top players from the 2018 draft class for career playoff wins.
As his journey progresses, Shamet looks forward to solidifying his place in basketball history. With four wins needed to secure an NBA championship, he stands ready to make a significant impact on one of basketball’s grandest stages.
