Manny Obaseki: Knicks G League Prospect Shows Intriguing Potential

Earlier this month, the New York Knicks quietly added former four-star prospect Manny Obaseki to their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. The move, completed via the available player pool under a Hardship Exception, drew little attention at the time. Still, it carried a layer of intrigue. New York was taking a low-risk look at a versatile rookie wing with legitimate pedigree, one whose career has yet to fully match his early promise. Obaseki’s start in Westchester was modest, but recent performances suggest the Knicks may have uncovered an overlooked talent. New York Knicks Get Longer Look as Minutes Increase Obaseki was eased into the rotation following his arrival, seeing limited action in a back-to-back set against the Stockton Kings on January 9 and 10. In his debut, he logged seven minutes without scoring while contributing two rebounds, one assist and one block. The following night, he added four points, three rebounds, one steal and one block in 14 minutes. As the games have progressed, so has his role. Increased minutes have brought added comfort and production, along with flashes of the athletic two-way profile that once made him a highly coveted recruit. That progression became more evident on January 15 against the Greensboro Swarm. Despite the loss, Obaseki played 23 minutes and finished with 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and four blocks. While he shot 4-of-12 from the field, he showed encouraging signs offensively, knocking down two three pointers and attacking in transition. Defensively, his activity stood out, highlighted by an athletic chase-down block in the second-quarter that showcased his instincts and effort, traits that consistently surface as his role expands. Much like his earlier stint with the Oklahoma City Blue, Obaseki’s production has risen with opportunity, giving the Knicks a clearer view of how his tools translate when entrusted with responsibility. Expanded Role Highlights Two-Way Potential The most telling performance came in Saturday’s win over the Wisconsin Herd. Obaseki’s minutes jumped to 35, and he responded with his most complete outing yet, posting 15 points, seven rebounds, six assists, one steal and three blocks while shooting 5-of-14 from the field. With the ball in his hands more frequently, the 6-foot-4 forward operated as a primary handler at times, playing with confidence and aggression. He finished through contact at the rim, knocked down a three-pointer and punctuated the night with a powerful dunk late in the first-quarter. Once again, his defensive hustle left the strongest impression. One sequence in particular stood out, as Obaseki dove to the floor for a loose ball which helped ignite a fast-break that ended with a dunk from Dink Pate to help seal the win late on. The play embodied the energy and versatility that teams look for at the developmental level. Extended minutes have highlighted Obaseki’s ability to rebound, defend, handle the ball and make plays across the box score, reflecting a skill-set that often earns longer evaluations and, eventually, NBA consideration. Through 20 games this season with Westchester and Oklahoma City, the former Texas A&M product is averaging 7.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 37.1% from the field and 30% from three point range. Those numbers are expected to climb in the coming weeks. For the Knicks, the G League continues to serve as a vital evaluation space, offering a competitive environment to assess players without committing a roster spot. While Obaseki’s signing under a Hardship Exception signals a short-term look, his early returns have been encouraging. With a defined role and consistent minutes, New York may have unlocked an under-the-radar talent worth monitoring closely.