Kevin Joseph Huerter Bio
Kevin Joseph Huerter is an American professional basketball player for the Detroit Pistons of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on August 27, 1998, in Albany, New York, Huerter has built a reputation as a skilled shooting guard known for his three-point shooting and versatile offensive game. Nicknamed “Red Velvet” and “the Big Huert,” he played college basketball for the Maryland Terrapins before beginning his professional career in 2018. Huerter was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the nineteenth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft and has since established himself as a reliable contributor at the NBA level, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2019. His career path has taken him through multiple franchises, showcasing his ability to adapt and contribute across different team systems.
Early Life and Background
Huerter grew up in Clifton Park, New York, a suburban town located in Saratoga County, raised by his parents Tom and Erin Huerter. He has a brother and two sisters, and basketball was clearly in his bloodline as his father Tom played college basketball for Siena College. His brother also went on to play for Siena, continuing the family’s basketball tradition. From an early age, Huerter was immersed in athletics, developing his skills on the court while also exploring other sports.
During his youth, Huerter played baseball competitively and was coached by his father in Babe Ruth League. He and his teammates finished third at the 2013 14U World Series, a notable achievement that highlighted his athletic versatility. Huerter was a teammate of future MLB pitcher Ian Anderson both in Babe Ruth League and at Shenendehowa High School, where they won the Class AA state championship together in 2016. The experience of playing multiple sports helped develop Huerter’s coordination, footwork, and competitive mentality that would serve him well in basketball.
Path to Basketball
Huerter attended Shenendehowa High School in Clifton Park, New York, where he truly emerged as a basketball talent. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches during his high school career, he developed into a highly regarded shooting guard with exceptional scoring ability. His leadership on the court helped lead the school to its second state championship, a significant accomplishment that solidified his status as one of the top players in New York State. As a senior, Huerter was awarded Mr. New York Basketball, the state’s highest honor for high school players, recognizing him as the best basketball player in New York for that year.
Throughout his high school career, Huerter attracted attention from college programs across the country. On September 7, 2015, he committed to play college basketball for Maryland, choosing the Terrapins over approximately 20 other offers. By the end of his high school career, Huerter was considered a four-star recruit and was ranked as the No. 50 overall prospect and No. 11 shooting guard in the 2016 high school class. His commitment to Maryland marked the beginning of his journey toward professional basketball, setting the stage for his collegiate career in the Big Ten Conference.
Kevin Joseph Huerter Career
College Career (2016–2018)
Huerter began his college career at the University of Maryland in 2016, and his talent was immediately apparent. He earned a starting position as a freshman and made an immediate impact, averaging 9.3 points and 4.9 rebounds per game throughout the season. His scoring ability and basketball IQ allowed him to contribute meaningfully from day one at the collegiate level, demonstrating that he was ready for the challenge of Big Ten competition. Following his impressive freshman season, Huerter received additional recognition when he was selected to play for the United States team at the 2017 FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup, where the American team finished third.
As a sophomore during the 2017-18 season, Huerter elevated his game to another level, increasing his scoring output to 14.8 points per game while averaging 5 rebounds. This improvement showcased his dedication to refining his skills and becoming a more complete player. His strong performance earned him honorable mention All-Big Ten honors at the close of the season. After two standout years with the Terrapins, Huerter made the decision to pursue professional basketball, declaring his eligibility for the 2018 NBA draft without an agent while maintaining his college eligibility.
Atlanta Hawks Breakthrough (2018–2022)
Huerter entered the 2018 NBA draft process and was selected to participate in the NBA Draft Combine, where he showcased his abilities against the nation’s top prospects. After working out for the Los Angeles Lakers and other teams, Huerter opted to hire an agent and remain in the draft on May 30, 2018, forgoing his final two years of college eligibility. His gamble paid off when, on June 21, 2018, the Atlanta Hawks selected him with the nineteenth overall pick in the first round. The Hawks recognized his shooting talent and basketball versatility as valuable assets for their rebuilding roster. On July 1, 2018, Huerter officially signed with the Hawks, beginning his professional career.
Huerter’s rookie season was marked by steady development and several memorable performances. On December 31, 2018, he recorded his first 20-point game against the Indiana Pacers, scoring 22 points in a 116-108 loss. Less than two weeks later, on January 11, 2019, he scored a season-high 29 points in a thrilling 123-121 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. At the conclusion of the 2018-19 season, Huerter was voted to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, validating his strong first year in the league and establishing him as a promising young talent in the NBA.
His most memorable moment as a Hawk came during the 2021 NBA Playoffs in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals against the Philadelphia 76ers. Huerter scored a playoff career-high 27 points, helping to lead the Hawks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2015. This breakthrough performance demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and solidified his importance to the team. On October 18, 2021, the Hawks rewarded his growth with a four-year, $65 million rookie contract extension, reflecting their confidence in his long-term potential and contributions to the franchise.
Sacramento Kings Era (2022–2025)
On July 6, 2022, Huerter’s tenure with the Hawks came to an end when he was traded to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Maurice Harkless, Justin Holiday, and a future first-round pick. The trade represented a new chapter in his career as he joined a Kings team looking to build on their competitive improvements. Huerter made his Kings debut on October 19, 2022, recording 23 points, three rebounds, and two assists in a 115-108 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, immediately demonstrating that he could contribute to his new team’s offensive attack.
During his second season with the Kings, Huerter achieved several career milestones. On January 18, 2024, he scored a career-high 31 points on an impressive 11-for-17 shooting in a 126-121 loss against the Indiana Pacers. However, the season took an unfortunate turn when, on March 21, 2024, Huerter suffered a dislocated left shoulder and labral tear after an injury during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The injury required surgery, announced on March 29, and caused him to miss the remainder of the 2023-24 season, a significant setback that affected his momentum and statistical production that year.
Driving Style and Strengths
Throughout his career, Huerter has established himself as a player known for his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from three-point range. His shooting mechanics and release point allow him to score efficiently both off the catch and off movement, making him a difficult cover for opposing defenses. His 6-foot-6 frame provides him with size at the shooting guard position, enabling him to shoot over smaller defenders while also possessing the ball-handling skills to play small forward when needed. His basketball IQ and court vision have also allowed him to contribute as a secondary playmaker, creating opportunities for teammates when defenses collapse on his shooting threat.
Notable Events and Milestones
Huerter’s career has been highlighted by several significant achievements and memorable performances. His Game 7 performance against the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semi-Finals stands as one of the defining moments of his career, as he helped lead the Hawks to their first Conference Finals since 2015. His career-high 31-point game with the Kings in January 2024 further demonstrated his ability to take over games offensively when given the opportunity. His NBA All-Rookie Second Team selection in 2019 validated his strong start to his professional career and set expectations for his future contributions in the league.
Kevin Joseph Huerter Career Highlights
Throughout his NBA career spanning from 2018 to the present, Huerter has accumulated meaningful accomplishments across multiple franchises. His journey from a 19th overall draft pick to a reliable NBA rotation player showcases his development and adaptability across different team situations. While specific career totals vary by season, his scoring averages and shooting percentages have remained consistent, with his best statistical seasons coming during peak health and opportunity.
Major Career Milestones
Among his most notable accomplishments, Huerter’s NBA All-Rookie Second Team selection in 2019 stands as a significant recognition of his early professional success. His Mr. New York Basketball award in 2016 highlighted his status as the top high school player in the state before his collegiate career at Maryland. His performance in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, particularly his 27-point Game 7 performance, demonstrated his ability to excel in playoff basketball. His career-high 31-point game achieved with the Sacramento Kings represents his offensive ceiling when operating with confidence and opportunity.
Other Notable Achievements
Prior to his professional career, Huerter’s accomplishments in high school and college laid the foundation for his NBA success. His role on Team USA at the 2017 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, where the team earned a bronze medal, provided valuable international experience at a young age. His honorable mention All-Big Ten selection during his sophomore year at Maryland demonstrated his ability to compete at a high collegiate level. His leadership at Shenendehowa High School, which included leading the school to its second state basketball championship, established his reputation as a winner and leader from an early age.
Kevin Joseph Huerter Family
Family Background and Basketball Lineage
Huerter comes from a family with deep roots in basketball. His father, Tom Huerter, played college basketball for Siena College, passing on his love of the game and basketball knowledge to his children. His brother also played for Siena, continuing the family’s basketball tradition at the collegiate level. Growing up in this environment clearly influenced Huerter’s development as a player and his understanding of the game from an early age. The support and guidance from his father helped shape his work ethic and approach to basketball.
Personal Life
Beyond basketball, Huerter maintains a connection to his roots in Clifton Park, New York, where he continues to reside. His athletic versatility extended beyond basketball during his youth, as he played baseball competitively alongside future MLB pitcher Ian Anderson. Their Babe Ruth League team, coached by Huerter’s father Tom, achieved notable success including a third-place finish at the 2013 14U World Series. Huerter is known to be a fan of the New York Yankees, reflecting his lifelong connection to sports in the New York area. He remains close with his family, who have supported his basketball career throughout his journey from youth leagues to the NBA.
2025 Season Performance
On February 3, 2025, Huerter was traded to the Chicago Bulls in a three-team deal involving the Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs. This move marked another significant change in his career trajectory as he joined his third NBA franchise. In 26 games with Chicago during the remainder of the 2024-25 season, including 16 starts, Huerter posted averages of 13.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. His ability to contribute immediately following the trade demonstrated his professionalism and adaptability to new team systems.
During the 2025-26 NBA season, Huerter continued with the Bulls, making 44 appearances with 11 starts while averaging 10.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His shooting skills and offensive versatility remained valuable assets as he worked to find consistency within Chicago’s rotation. The transition to a new franchise presented challenges, but Huerter’s experience and basketball IQ allowed him to remain productive despite the adjustments required when joining a different team environment. His career path reflects the reality of professional basketball where players often navigate multiple team situations throughout their careers while continuing to contribute at the NBA level.