De’Aaron Fox and Malik Monk Reunite in the NBA
One of Kentucky basketball's most notable duos, De’Aaron Fox and Malik Monk, are coming together again in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings.
New Contract Announcement
On the first day of NBA free agency, it was revealed that Malik Monk agreed to a two-year, $19 million contract to join his former Kentucky teammate in Sacramento. Another former Wildcat, Trey Lyles, also joined the team.
College Highlights
- During the 2016-17 season at Kentucky, Monk scored an impressive 47 points against the eventual national champion.
- Fox made significant impacts by dominating UCLA and Lonzo Ball twice.
- Both players were selected in the top 10 of the NBA draft following that season.
NBA Career Progress
Over their first five years in the NBA, Fox and Monk have experienced mixed success. Fox has been the more consistent performer, averaging 19.1 points and 6.2 assists per game and nearly securing All-Star selections for three consecutive seasons.
“Fox has yet to play in the playoffs as the Kings have routinely been one of the worst teams in the NBA, dating back to 2005-06.”
Monk, meanwhile, struggled to establish himself with the Charlotte Hornets. In four seasons there, he started only one game and never averaged more than 21.3 minutes and 11 points per game.
Summary
De’Aaron Fox and Malik Monk’s reunion in Sacramento reunites Kentucky’s past stars, with Fox’s strong NBA trajectory complemented by Monk’s fresh opportunity to regain momentum.