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UK All American Malik Monk is now a part of the Charlotte Hornets. Monk signed last night for a reported $15.72 million through the 2020-2021 season.
WE'VE INKED THE DEAL The Hornets have officially signed @AhmadMonk! #BuzzCity https://t.co/DtqIYZuVRy pic.twitter.com/tspNWkTjz7
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) July 3, 2017
Under the terms of the NBA Players Union contract Monk will be guaranteed two years of compensation totaling about $5 million.
Monk, who was drafted 11th by the Hornets, averaged 19.8 ppg for the Wildcats last season. Monk made himself known nationally when he went off for 47 points in a nationally televised game against the eventual national champion North Carolina Tar Heels. That total was a record for UK freshmen.
Monk gave this interview to NBA TV shortly after being drafted.
No. 11 overall pick in the 2017 #NBADraft, Malik Monk joined @realgranthill33 and @matt_winer during Orlando #NBASummer League! pic.twitter.com/7eT7Aao4an
— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 1, 2017
Monk shot 45% from the field for UK and 37% from beyond the three line. He also shot 82% from the free throw line.
Monk will miss playing in the summer league due to an ankle injury sustained during workouts prior to the draft.
Malik Monk will most likely miss Summer League with a sprained ankle (ESPN) pic.twitter.com/f4hFHdWUbf
— NBA RETWEET (@RTNBA) June 28, 2017
Monk doesn’t lack for confidence in his abilities. When asked how long his range was recently Monk replied, “I don’t have any. As soon as I walk in the gym.” When asked how his range compared to NBA star Steph Curry, Monk said, “Mine is further than his.”
Monk went on to say this in an interview with the Charlotte Observer. He was asked how he would fare against NBA great, Michael Jordan, “He’s pretty old right now. I think I can get him.”
Monk made some truly spectacular plays last season for the Cats including this pass in the Arizona State game.
Maybe the play Wildcat fans will remember the most was this shot that sealed the victory over North Carolina in their first meeting of the year.
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