Courtesy of Nevada Athletics
RENO, Nev. – Kobe Sanders is officially headed to the NBA, and he is doing it with a return home to Southern California. The former Nevada Wolf Pack guard was selected 50th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. However, just minutes after the pick was made, ESPN Insider Shams Charania reported that Sanders would be traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. The pick was acquired from the New York Knicks in exchange for the No. 51 pick.
The Clippers made a move up in the second round to acquire Sanders, sending a future second-round pick and cash considerations to New York. With the deal, Los Angeles lands a dynamic playmaker who had a standout senior season at Nevada. Sanders averaged 15.8 points and 4.5 assists per game last season, earning third-team All-Mountain West honors. His assist average ranked 84th in the nation, showing his value as both a scorer and a facilitator.
Sanders becomes the 17th player in Nevada Wolf Pack history to be drafted to the NBA. He is also the first player from the program to be selected since Jalen Harris was taken 59th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2020.
A native of San Diego, Sanders now has the chance to begin his professional career back in his home state. His mix of size, scoring ability, and vision makes him a promising addition to the Clippers’ backcourt. As Los Angeles looks to retool its roster, Sanders could carve out a meaningful role in the rotation moving forward.
The deal marks a significant step for Sanders and a proud moment for the Nevada basketball program. With his skill set and work ethic, he now has the opportunity to establish himself at the next level.
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