Knicks Journal Entry #2: Isaiah Hicks Felt Anxious To Return To Court After Missing Two Games And Speaks On Winter Showcase Experience

After spending his rookie season with the New York Knicks, Isaiah Hicks returned to the team on a second two-way contract. Throughout the 2018-19 campaign, Ridiculous Upside will follow the big man’s journey through his second season.

Previous Entries: Entry One

Entry Two

Since Thanksgiving, the temperature has been dropping in New York. You would never had know that with the way Isaiah Hicks has been heating up the Westchester County Center. He missed a couple of games with a family issue, but made his presence felt when he stepped back on the court.

Hicks returned to the line-up against the Windy City Bulls and he didn't miss a beat. He was able to have a great impact on both ends of the floor and played a significant role in the team’s 91-72 victory.

“It was four days away and I was just anxious, excited to play, and ready to get back out there.” Hicks said. “The day before our game, I was in practice and everybody was like, ‘you got fresh legs.’ I was just everywhere.”

He has been one of the driving forces in the team’s success and is one of the leading scorers on the team. Through his strong production, Hicks feels he’s starting to get in the right groove and is bringing consistent energy and effort is primary for him. While the second-year forward remains productive, his main goal is to remain consistent as the season continues to progress.

“My biggest thing is probably just being consistent,” Hicks said. “I feel like that’s biggest thing I’m working on. Just being consistent and bring the same energy and effort everyday. I feel like even from last year, I’m able to step out and shoot more. That’s the biggest step for me is just being comfortable on the perimeter.”

The Knicks’ two-way player knows what to expect this time around since the G League season is at the half way point. Based off his experience last season, Hicks is remaining prepared for when his opportunity comes knocking.

“It was my rookie year and you get called up, it’s a surreal feeling that you are finally playing with the big team and you’re out there,” Hicks said. “It’s a dream come true. Now, it’s just like, I’m ready. I know what to expect and I’m just preparing down here.”

The G League Winter Showcase rolled around in Las Vegas and the top players in the league had the brightest spotlight on them. Despite missing the team’s second game against the Austin Spurs, it was a great experience for Hicks and he knew he would see great competition from everybody.

“I felt like it was a great experience,” Hicks said. (h/t Westchester Knicks) “Coming out knowing we would get everybody’s best and just showing how much I developed from last year. Unfortunately, I got hurt and couldn’t compete for today’s game, but I still had a good experience.”