NBA Legends Mentor Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns Amid Struggles

Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter have been offering advice to the star center during New York's inconsistent season.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

NBA Hall of Famers Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter have been mentoring New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns as he navigates through a challenging season. The two legends were seen talking to Towns before a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and McGrady later explained that it's part of their responsibility as former players to help the next generation work through any issues they may be facing.

Why it matters

Towns has faced significant criticism this season for not living up to his immense potential, with even Shaquille O'Neal publicly challenging him to be more dominant. As the Knicks prepare for a crucial playoff run, McGrady and Carter's guidance could be invaluable in helping Towns reach new heights and fulfill the high expectations placed on him.

The details

During the Knicks' game against the Thunder, NBC's broadcast showed McGrady and Carter offering pregame advice to Towns. The two Hall of Famers later revealed that they were 'talking to him like basketball players' in an effort to help the center improve his production. McGrady explained that as part of the 'fraternity' of former NBA players, it's their responsibility to support the next generation when they're struggling, regardless of whether it's Towns, Jalen Brunson, or Mikal Bridges.

  • On April 4, 2026, McGrady and Carter were seen mentoring Towns before the Knicks' game against the Thunder.

The players

Tracy McGrady

A seven-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer who is now mentoring young players like Karl-Anthony Towns.

Vince Carter

An eight-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer who is also offering guidance to Karl-Anthony Towns.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The star center for the New York Knicks who has faced criticism this season for not living up to his potential.

Shaquille O'Neal

A four-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer who publicly challenged Towns to be more dominant earlier this season.

Jalen Brunson

A Knicks player who has also been struggling this season, and has received support from the veteran mentors.

Mikal Bridges

Another Knicks player who has faced challenges this season, and is also receiving guidance from the former NBA stars.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's not just him, I mean, we a fraternity. So if I see that one of our players is going through something, it's up to us to lean on him and help him get out of that rut that he's in. Regardless of if it's KAT, or if it's Jalen Brunson going through something, if it's Mikal Bridges, it doesn't matter. It's just, KAT is the focal point right now.”

— Tracy McGrady, NBA Hall of Famer

“KAT is the one that everyone has eyes on, he's the big fish. Jalen Brunson is doing his thing, but when you look at KAT, they want more. And for me, it's just talking about helping him get through that, and what he can do. Just giving him advice, nothing more, nothing less.”

— Tracy McGrady, NBA Hall of Famer

What’s next

As the Knicks prepare for a crucial playoff run, the guidance and mentorship from NBA legends like McGrady and Carter could be pivotal in helping Karl-Anthony Towns reach his full potential and lead the team to success.

The takeaway

This story highlights the important role that former NBA stars can play in supporting and mentoring the next generation of players. By offering their wisdom and experience, McGrady, Carter, and others are helping young talents like Towns navigate the challenges of the league and reach new heights in their careers.