New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns has started to consider his career path after basketball, hinting at a future in media. The reigning champion made his comments at a recent event in New York City, just days after the Knicks fell 109-111 to the Washington Wizards in a preseason game on October 8. His focus, however, remains split between the future and the present, with a significant contract extension still on the table.
Speaking at an event in Manhattan, Towns was asked if he saw himself moving into broadcasting after he retires. He admitted he hasn't settled on a definitive plan. "I think so? I don't know yet. I'm not sure," Towns said. "I'm still trying to figure out how to win another (championship) right now."
He acknowledged the inevitable end of his playing days, noting, "I know one day the ball will stop dribbling." Sitting beside former New York Yankees manager Joe Girardi, Towns said he views the veteran broadcaster as a model for a potential second career. The conversation also touched on the popular podcast hosted by his teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Towns expressed some interest in that space, suggesting he might even involve his wife, Jordyn Woods.
While thinking about life after basketball, a more immediate business matter is unresolved. Contract negotiations between Towns and the Knicks are not yet finalized. Reports indicate the team has presented an offer in the neighborhood of $200 million. That figure falls approximately $77 million short of the full four-year, $276 million maximum extension Towns is eligible to sign.
Towns himself addressed the situation recently. He outlined his desires for a new deal and stated plainly, "none of those things are close to happening." When questioned if winning a championship should make negotiations simple, his response was blunt. "No s--t, Sherlock. I just won a championship. You'd think it was pretty easy," Towns said. The six-time All-Star holds a $61 million player option for the 2027-28 season, which he is widely expected to decline in pursuit of a larger, long-term commitment.
The team's on-court preparations continue amid these off-court discussions. The Knicks are working through their preseason schedule, which included a 120-97 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on October 5. Their most recent outing was a narrow 109-111 defeat to the Washington Wizards. These games serve as a tune-up before the regular season grind begins.
Next up, they host the Minnesota Timberwolves at Madison Square Garden on October 12. For Towns, the immediate task is helping the defending champions transition from hunters to the hunted. His role in slowing down stars like Victor Wembanyama was vital to last season's title run, and replicating that defensive intensity will be a priority. His long-term future, both in New York and beyond the court, adds a compelling layer to the new season.
