The Brooklyn Nets have a long history of scouting talent from every corner of the map, including the state of Alabama, with K.J. McDaniels being a notable alum. This exploration of the Nets' Alabama connections comes as the team builds momentum in the preseason, most recently securing a 131-122 win over the Washington Wizards on October 12, 2026. The franchise's global search for players has seen them sign athletes from across the United States and around the world, creating a diverse roster throughout their ABA and NBA history.
While the Nets have cast a wide net for talent, specific players from Alabama have made their mark. The focus here is on K.J. McDaniels, a native of Mobile. He was a second-round pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, selected 32nd overall by the Philadelphia 76ers. McDaniels played his first 52 professional games with the Sixers before a stint with the Houston Rockets. His NBA journey concluded with the Brooklyn Nets in 2017 after a trade brought him to Brooklyn.
During his time with the Nets, McDaniels provided energy off the bench. He averaged 6.3 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in his final NBA season. His athleticism was a useful tool on both ends of the floor, though his tenure in Brooklyn was relatively brief. The search for talent from every state, including Alabama, remains a part of the organization's identity as they evaluate new players each year.
The Nets' ongoing evaluation of talent is evident in their 2026 preseason performances. After a dominant 124-90 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on October 6 and a 114-108 win against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 8, the team notched another high-scoring win. They defeated the Washington Wizards 131-122 on October 12, showing offensive firepower ahead of the regular season. These games are key for assessing roster depth and player fit, continuing the franchise's tradition of leaving no stone unturned.
Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matchups on our schedule page. The next test is a road game against the Miami Heat on October 14, which will be another important benchmark. Preseason results don't count in the standings, but they establish rhythm and chemistry for the grueling NBA schedule ahead.
K.J. McDaniels' professional career, while not lengthy, followed a path from Central Park Christian High School to Clemson University and then to the NBA. His draft position in the early second round is a common path for many players seeking to establish themselves. His stats in Brooklyn-6.3 points and 2.6 rebounds per game-reflect the role of a rotational player contributing in limited minutes.
His story is one of many in the vast network of players who have worn a Nets jersey. The organization's history, from the New Jersey Americans to the present-day Brooklyn Nets, is built on such contributions. While stars often grab headlines, the efforts of players like McDaniels are part of the team's fabric. Each player's journey, shaped by their hometown and career path, adds to the collective history of the franchise as they prepare for future challenges.
