Ariel Hukporti is a name that basketball enthusiasts are becoming increasingly familiar with. As a young and promising center for the New York Knicks, Hukporti has made his mark with his towering presence and defensive skills. Born in Germany to Togolese parents, Hukporti’s journey to the NBA has been anything but conventional.
From playing in European leagues to joining the Australian National Basketball League (NBL) and finally making his way to the NBA, his career trajectory is a testament to hard work and determination. This article explores everything about Ariel Hukporti in 2025, including his net worth, contract details, career earnings, and more.
Ariel Hukporti’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ariel Washington Hukporti |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 2002 |
| Age | 23 |
| Education | N/A |
| Nationality | German/Togolese |
| Height | 6’11” (211 cm) |
| Weight | 246 lbs (112 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2018 |
| Net Worth | $5,745,331, |
| Salary | $1,064,049 (2024-25 season) |
| Career Earnings | $1,115,546+ |
| Wife/Husband | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Ariel Washington Hukporti was born on April 12, 2002, in Stralsund, Germany. Unlike many NBA players who develop through the American college system, Hukporti chose to hone his basketball skills in professional leagues across Europe and Australia. This unconventional path began in his home country of Germany, where his height and natural athletic ability caught the attention of professional teams.
Hukporti’s professional journey started at just 16 years old when he joined MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, a professional basketball club in Germany’s Basketball Bundesliga (BBL). On December 12, 2018, he made his professional debut for Ludwigsburg in the Basketball Champions League against Banvit. Despite playing only one minute in this game, he managed to score four points in an 88-76 loss. This brief appearance gave fans and scouts a glimpse of the young center’s potential.
Shortly after his Champions League debut, Hukporti made his first appearance in the Basketball Bundesliga on January 13, 2019, against medi Bayreuth. These early professional appearances were significant for a player of his age, demonstrating the trust his coaches had in his abilities despite his youth. While his minutes were limited, as is common for teenage players in competitive European leagues, every moment on the court contributed to his development.
A breakthrough moment in Hukporti’s early career came during the NBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago in February 2020. There, he was named MVP of the Basketball Without Borders camp, an achievement that put him on the radar of international scouts and highlighted his standing among global prospects his age. This recognition validated his potential and suggested that his basketball future might eventually lead to the NBA.
During the 2019-20 season with Ludwigsburg, Hukporti continued to develop his game while playing limited minutes. On June 11, 2020, he recorded what was then a career-high 10 points along with three rebounds and two blocks in a decisive 103-74 victory over Brose Bamberg in the preliminary round of the 2020 BBL Final Tournament. This performance showcased his potential as both an offensive threat and a rim protector.
By the end of the 2019-20 season with Ludwigsburg, Hukporti had averaged three points and 2.3 rebounds in 7.9 minutes per game across all competitions. While these numbers might seem modest, they represented solid production for a teenage player in a high-level European league. More importantly, they showed steady growth and adaptation to professional basketball.
Seeking more playing time and development opportunities, Hukporti made a significant move in July 2020 when he signed with Nevėžis Kėdainiai of the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL). This decision to play in Lithuania represented an important step in his development, as the Lithuanian league is known for its strong basketball tradition and competitive environment where many future NBA players have developed.
In Lithuania, Hukporti saw significantly increased playing time and responsibility. Throughout the 2020-21 season with Nevėžis Kėdainiai, he appeared in 19 games and averaged an impressive 10.2 points and 7.4 rebounds across 22.8 minutes per game. This substantial increase in both playing time and production demonstrated his growth as a player and his ability to contribute at a higher level when given the opportunity.
The time in Lithuania proved crucial for Hukporti’s development, allowing him to play extended minutes against quality competition. He improved his rebounding technique, defensive positioning, and offensive awareness during this period. His performances in the LKL further raised his profile among international scouts, setting the stage for his next career move.
Hukporti’s early career showed a pattern of thoughtful career decisions and a willingness to challenge himself in different basketball environments. Rather than rushing to declare for the NBA Draft, he prioritized development and real professional experience, building a foundation of skills and basketball knowledge that would serve him well in his future career moves. This patience and commitment to development would soon pay off as bigger opportunities came knocking.
Professional Career
After establishing himself in European basketball, Ariel Hukporti made a significant career move when he signed with Melbourne United of the Australian National Basketball League (NBL) on July 28, 2021.
This move was part of the NBL’s Next Stars program, an initiative designed to develop young international talent with NBA potential. The program had already helped players like LaMelo Ball and Josh Giddey prepare for the NBA, making it an attractive option for Hukporti.
His first season with Melbourne United in 2021-22 showed promise as he adapted to the Australian style of play. Appearing in 27 games, Hukporti averaged 7.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per contest. His combination of size, athleticism, and mobility made him stand out, and he began to establish himself as a defensive presence in the paint. Playing alongside experienced professionals helped him understand the nuances of the game better and develop his basketball IQ.
However, Hukporti’s career faced a major setback during the 2022 pre-season when he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon. This devastating injury forced him to miss the entire 2022-23 NBL season. For a young player, especially a big man who relies on explosiveness and mobility, an Achilles injury can be particularly challenging. The rehabilitation process was lengthy and demanding, testing not only his physical resilience but also his mental fortitude.
Despite this significant setback, Hukporti showed commitment to Melbourne United and faith in their development program by recommitting to the team on March 31, 2023, for the 2023-24 NBL season. This decision demonstrated his loyalty and belief in the path he had chosen for his development.
The 2023-24 season marked Hukporti’s remarkable comeback from injury, and he showed significant improvement in his game. Playing alongside fellow big man Jo Lual-Acuil Jr., he excelled in his role, averaging 8.4 points, 1.5 blocks, and 7 rebounds per game. His defensive presence and rim protection became crucial assets for Melbourne United, and he established himself as one of the league’s most promising young centers.
Hukporti’s mobility for his size became one of his defining characteristics. He ran the floor exceptionally well for a 7-footer, blocked shots with good timing, and finished strongly above the rim. His season highlight came in Round 4 against Illawarra, where he recorded 21 points on highly efficient 6-of-7 shooting, along with 10 rebounds, a block, and a steal. Performances like this showcased his potential as a two-way player who could impact games on both ends of the court.
With Melbourne United, Hukporti reached the NBL Finals against the Tasmania JackJumpers in the 2023-24 season. Although Melbourne ultimately lost the series 2-3, finishing as NBL runners-up, the experience of playing in high-pressure playoff games further contributed to his development and basketball maturity.
Following the conclusion of the NBL season, Hukporti returned to his roots in April 2024, rejoining MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg for the remainder of the 2023-24 Basketball Bundesliga season. This brief stint in Germany allowed him to showcase his improved skills in a familiar environment before the NBA Draft, coming full circle in his pre-NBA career.
Hukporti’s journey reached a pivotal moment on June 27, 2024, when he was selected with the 58th overall pick—the very last selection—in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. On the same day, his draft rights were traded to the New York Knicks in exchange for the rights to Melvin Ajinça. This transaction began Hukporti’s NBA career in the basketball mecca of New York City.
On July 8, 2024, Hukporti initially signed a two-way contract with the New York Knicks, which would have allowed him to split time between the Knicks and their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. However, due to roster needs following the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, the Knicks needed to meet the minimum roster requirement of 14 players.
As a result, the Knicks management worked with Hukporti’s agents to convert his two-way contract to a standard NBA contract. This new deal was structured as a two-year, $5,745,331 contract with only the first year ($1,064,049) guaranteed and a team option for the second year. This contract upgrade represented a significant financial improvement over the two-way deal, which would have paid only half of the rookie minimum salary.
An interesting note about Hukporti’s integration with the Knicks is that he was reportedly advised by fellow German NBA player Isaiah Hartenstein, whose jersey number (55) Hukporti also adopted when joining the Knicks. This mentorship from an established NBA player from his home country likely helped ease his transition to the NBA.
Hukporti made his NBA debut on October 22, 2024, in a game against the Boston Celtics, a 132-109 loss. Throughout his rookie season, he has been assigned to the Westchester Knicks of the G League multiple times to gain valuable playing experience. In his G League appearances, Hukporti has averaged 7.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game while shooting 48% from the field, showing promise as a defensive anchor and rebounder.
A significant milestone in Hukporti’s NBA career came on February 26, 2025, when he made his first NBA start against the Philadelphia 76ers. In this game, he recorded 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 block. Unfortunately, Hukporti suffered a torn meniscus during this game and was subsequently ruled out for 4-6 weeks, temporarily halting his rookie season progress just as he was getting his first real opportunity as a starter.
As of April 2025, Hukporti is in the final stages of his recovery from the meniscus injury. Based on the initial 4-6 week timeline announced after his injury on February 26, he should be close to returning to action or may have already played in limited minutes as the regular season winds down and the Knicks prepare for a potential playoff run.
Throughout his professional career, Hukporti has drawn comparisons to players like Miami Heat center Thomas Bryant for his interior presence and defensive capabilities. Coaches and analysts have praised his athletic profile as a mobile center who runs the floor well, his shot-blocking timing, his ability to finish above the rim, and his nose for rebounds.
Former Melbourne United Head Coach Dean Vickerman highlighted Hukporti’s potential as “an elite player at the defensive end of the floor,” while NBL legend Andrew Gaze praised his “ability to catch the ball, finish above the rim, his shot-blocking ability, his robust athleticism,” noting that he was “starting to develop” into a complete player.
As Hukporti continues to establish himself in the NBA, his journey from European leagues to Australia to the NBA demonstrates his adaptability and determination, qualities that suggest he has the potential to become a valuable contributor for years to come in the world’s premier basketball league.
Ariel Hukporti’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Ariel Hukporti’s net worth is estimated to be $5,745,331.
Contract
Ariel Hukporti signed a two-year, $5,745,331 contract with the New York Knicks after being drafted 58th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. This contract includes $1,064,049 guaranteed in the first year, with the second year being a team option. The average annual salary over this contract is $2,872,666.
Hukporti’s contract was converted from an initial two-way deal to a standard NBA contract due to roster needs following the Knicks’ acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns. This upgrade represented a significant financial improvement for Hukporti, who was advised during this process by fellow German NBA player Isaiah Hartenstein, whose jersey number (55) Hukporti also wears with the Knicks. The contract structure gives the Knicks flexibility while providing Hukporti with guaranteed NBA money in his rookie season.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Ariel Hukporti is earning a base salary of $1,064,049, which also represents his cap hit for the New York Knicks. His cash earnings for the 2024-25 season amount to $1,115,546. This salary is in line with late second-round picks in the NBA draft, particularly those selected in the final spots.
As the 58th and final selection in the 2024 draft, Hukporti’s initial salary reflects his draft position, though performance and development over his rookie contract could lead to more substantial earnings in future contracts. The guaranteed portion of his contract ensures financial security during his transition to the NBA, regardless of playing time or performance metrics.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | New York Knicks | $1,115,546 |
| Total Career Earnings | $1,115,546 |
NBA Career Stats
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Games Played (GP) | 25 |
| Games Started (GS) | 1 |
| Minutes Per Game (MPG) | 8.7 |
| Points Per Game (PPG) | 1.9 |
| Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | 2.0 |
| Assists Per Game (APG) | 0.4 |
| Steals Per Game (SPG) | 0.0 |
| Blocks Per Game (BPG) | 0.6 |
| Turnovers Per Game (TOV) | 0.8 |
| Field Goal Percentage (FG%) | 67.7% |
| Three-Point Percentage (3P%) | 0.0% |
| Free Throw Percentage (FT%) | 46.2% |
FAQs
1. Who is Ariel Hukporti and what team does he play for?
Ariel Washington Hukporti is a German-Togolese professional basketball player currently playing center for the New York Knicks in the NBA. Born April 12, 2002, in Stralsund, Germany, he was selected with the 58th overall pick (final pick) in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks before being traded to the Knicks on draft night.
2. What are Ariel Hukporti’s physical attributes?
Hukporti stands at 7 feet (213 cm) tall and weighs approximately 246 pounds (112 kg). He has a strong frame that allows him to thrive as a rebounder, screen-setter, and rim protector. His size and physical presence make him an imposing figure in the paint on both ends of the court.
3. What was Ariel Hukporti’s path to the NBA?
Hukporti’s professional journey began in Germany with Riesen Ludwigsburg (2018-2020), followed by a season with Nevėžis Kėdainiai in Lithuania (2020-2021). He then played for Melbourne United in Australia’s NBL (2021-2024), briefly returned to Ludwigsburg in 2024, and was subsequently drafted into the NBA, where he signed with the New York Knicks.
4. What type of contract does Ariel Hukporti have with the Knicks?
Hukporti signed a two-year, $5,745,331 contract with the New York Knicks, including $1,064,049 guaranteed, with an average annual salary of $2,872,666. He initially signed a two-way contract on July 8, 2024, before converting to a standard NBA contract on November 4, 2024.
5. What injury has Ariel Hukporti recently suffered?
Hukporti suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 26, 2025. This injury occurred during his first career NBA start. According to reports, he is expected to miss 4-6 weeks while recovering from the injury.
6. What are Ariel Hukporti’s NBA statistics in his rookie season?
In his rookie 2024-25 season with the Knicks, Hukporti has appeared in 25 games (including 1 start), averaging 1.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, 0.4 assists, and 0.6 blocks in 8.7 minutes per game. He’s shooting 67.7% from the field while primarily playing a limited role off the bench.
7. How did Ariel Hukporti begin playing basketball?
Hukporti initially played football as a defender growing up. Standing 5’11” at just nine years old, he began playing basketball at age 11 partly due to his height. He was raised by a single mother in Germany and started his basketball journey playing in the Jugend Basketball Bundesliga (German U16 league) with USC Freiburg.
8. What international experience does Ariel Hukporti have?
Hukporti has represented Germany in multiple youth competitions, including the 2017 FIBA U16 European Championship (averaging 5.4 points and 8.9 rebounds), the 2018 Albert Schweitzer Tournament (winning gold), and the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship (averaging 10.1 points and 6.4 rebounds).
9. What are Ariel Hukporti’s strengths as a basketball player?
Hukporti’s main strengths include rebounding, rim protection, screen-setting, and finishing near the basket. He plays with high energy and hustle, making him effective on the offensive glass. He’s also known for his ability to finish in pick-and-roll and lob situations while providing solid interior defense and shot-blocking.
10. What was Hukporti’s experience in the Australian NBL?
Hukporti played for Melbourne United in Australia’s NBL from 2021-2024 as part of their Next Stars program. He missed the entire 2022-23 season after rupturing his Achilles tendon during pre-season. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 7.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 58% from the field across 36 appearances.
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