The New York Knicks’ season ended in the hands of Indiana Pacers and while some players deal with the anxiety of the possibility of getting traded, bench player Tyler Kolek is busier now working out as he tries to have a better sophomore year. His first stop is his former school Marquette Golden Eagles.
USATSI 25797343
Mar 28, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; New York Knicks guard Tyler Kolek (13) drives to the basket against Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) in the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Kolek, who was Shaka Smart’s main point guard in 2023-2024 season, surprised current Golden Eagles with his presence and worked with them in the scrimmages.
The young players were seen getting excited with his presence on the gym.
Returning to his former college program was one of the first things Kolek thought of after the season ended.
“Happy to be back in Marquette, working out with the coaches, working out with the team,” he said in a video posted by a Knicks fans account.
USATSI 22899595
Mar 29, 2024; Dallas, TX, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles guard Tyler Kolek (11) leaves the court after losing to the North Carolina State Wolfpack in the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
“As soon as the season ended, I knew I wanted to come to Marquette just to see some get some work, get ready for summer league.”
Tyler Kolek credits Marquette Golden Eagles for personal growth
Kolek, who had a good run while Jalen Brunson was out, also credited the program for his growth as a basketball player before getting drafted 34th overall in last year’s draft. Kolek played three seasons for the Wisconsin-based college team.
“I think being around these guys that push you everyday, that want the best for you and out of you, I feel like these guys are so invested.”
Tyler Kolek, New York Knicks
Apr 13, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Tyler Kolek (13) goes to the basket after the game Brooklyn Nets forward Tosan Evbuomwan (12) in front of forward Tosan Evbuomwan (12) during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The 24-year-old point guard also briefly talked about the team.
“See the new guys, the freshmen, it’s always great having a new class in. I’m kind of here in their first couple of days, week in campus. It’s great to see ’em competing every time.”
For more great Wisconsin sports content
Follow us @WiSportsHeroics for the latest and trending news about Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Marquette, and the rest of Wisconsin Sports. Stay updated by reading more of our Wisconsin Sports articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!