The New York Knicks haven’t made any groundbreaking moves this summer, but it isn’t fair to say that the organization has been entirely silent.
In addition to signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, the Knicks recently hired a 45-year-old former Los Angeles Clippers scout.
“The New York Knicks have hired Ermal Kuqo as Senior Director of Minor League Operations,” HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported Tuesday.
“Kuqo spent the past nine years with the Los Angeles Clippers. He was most recently their Director of International Pro Scouting. He played 14 years overseas, including eight for Anadolu Efes.”
As a player, Kuqo enjoyed a productive career with several overseas organizations. The Korce, Albania native turned pro at age 14, spending his first two seasons with KB Tirana (who competes in the Albania Basketball League).
Kuqo didn’t achieve much team success until he joined Anadolu Efes (formerly known as Efes Pilsen) in 2003. Kuqo won two Turkish League titles, two Turkish Cup titles, and two President’s Cup titles with the Istanbul-based club during his first stint.
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Kuko returned to Anadolu Efes twice after departing from the organization following the 2007-08 season. However, the former 6-foot-9 big man failed to win another championship before retiring in 2016.
Kuko joined the Clippers shortly after, becoming a scouting consultant for the title-less Western Conference organization in 2016. The Clippers promoted Kuko twice between 2016 and 2019, showing their appreciation for his valuable work.
Kuko’s experience in the scouting department at the NBA level should help him succeed with the Knicks moving forward.
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