KJ Thomas is set to join the UTEP Miners men’s basketball team for the 2024-25 season after a standout career at Canyon Randall High School. Known for his scoring ability, he has gained recognition as a three-star recruit and one of the top guards in Texas.
This means that UTEP, under head coach Joe Golding, is adding a talented player who can make an immediate impact on the court.
In his senior year, Thomas helped lead his high school team to the Class 4A Final Four, averaging an impressive 22 points per game. His skills and dedication caught the attention of several colleges, including offers from teams like Drake and Louisiana Tech.
His commitment to UTEP not only strengthens the Miners’ roster but also sparks interest in how his net worth is expected to grow through potential endorsements and name, image, and likeness deals.
As UTEP looks to enhance its position in college basketball, KJ Thomas brings excitement and hope for the future. His journey from El Paso’s West Texas landscape to a Division I program showcases the talent emerging from the region.
Fans will be eager to see how Thomas adapts to playing at the collegiate level and contributes to the Miners’ quest for success in upcoming seasons.
Who Is KJ Thomas?
KJ Thomas is a talented basketball player known for his skill on the court. He is a three-star prospect who has made a name for himself in high school basketball and is set to play for the UTEP Miners.
This section explores his background, family, personal life, and social media presence.
Where Did KJ Thomas Grow Up?
KJ Thomas grew up in Amarillo, Texas. He attended Canyon Randall High School, where he showcased his impressive skills as a guard. During his time there, he became the all-time leading scorer for the school.
He was a key player for his team, helping them to achieve a ranking among the top 10 in the state. His hard work led to his recognition as the fourth-ranked point guard in Texas and the No. 40 point guard nationally, according to 247 Sports.
Who Are KJ Thomas’ Parents?
Information about KJ Thomas’ parents is not widely publicized. However, it is known that they have played a significant role in supporting his basketball journey.
Like many athletes, having a supportive family can greatly influence a player’s success. They instilled values of hard work and dedication in him, which helped shape his character both on and off the court.
Who Is KJ Thomas Dating?
Currently, there is limited information about KJ Thomas’s dating life. He tends to keep his personal relationships private, focusing primarily on his basketball career.
As a young athlete with many commitments, dating may not be his main priority. Fans and followers hope to learn more about his personal life as he becomes more established in college basketball.
What Car Does KJ Thomas Drive?
Details regarding the car KJ Thomas drives have not been publicly disclosed. Many young athletes prioritize their education and sports over material possessions during their high school years.
As he transitions to college, his focus will likely remain on basketball and studies rather than luxury vehicles.
KJ Thomas Social Media Presence
KJ Thomas is active on social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter. He shares updates about his training, team news, and personal milestones.
His presence allows fans to connect with him and follow his journey to UTEP. Engaging with followers helps him build his personal brand as an athlete and gain support from the community.
How to Get in Contact with KJ Thomas
To get in touch with KJ Thomas, fans can reach out through his social media accounts. Athletes often interact with fans and followers through direct messages or comments.
It’s important to remember that he is focused on his development as a player, so responses may not be immediate. Engaging with him on these platforms can create a connection that many fans look for with their favorite athletes.
KJ Thomas High School Basketball Career
KJ Thomas had an impressive high school basketball career that showcased his talent and determination. He played for Randall High School, where he broke records, earned numerous accolades, and drew attention from college programs across the country.
Where Did KJ Thomas Attend High School
KJ Thomas attended Randall High School in Amarillo, Texas. During his time there, he became a key player for the Randall Raiders, significantly impacting the team and the school’s basketball program.
The Raiders are known for their competitive spirit, and Thomas played an essential role in keeping the team in the spotlight. Under the guidance of head coach Leslie Broadhurst, who praised Thomas as one of the best players he has ever coached, KJ thrived on the court, leading his team to great success, including a run to the state final four.
What Was KJ Thomas’ Stats in High School
In his high school career, KJ Thomas scored over 1,500 points, making him the all-time leading scorer at Randall High School. His scoring prowess included a remarkable game where he scored a program-best 50 points against Borger High School.
Thomas consistently demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, averaging significant points per game throughout his senior year. He was a starter on the varsity team and played a crucial role in key tournaments, including the Burkburnett Union Square Classic and the TABC Showcase.
What Awards Did KJ Thomas Win in High School
During his high school career, Thomas earned multiple awards recognizing his exceptional skills. He was named the Co-MVP of District 4-4A, highlighting his leadership and talent on the court.
Additionally, he was recognized as the Player of the Year in his region. His contributions helped lead Randall to the Class 4A State Tournament, where he showcased his skills among the best athletes in Texas, further solidifying his reputation.
What Schools Recruited KJ Thomas
KJ Thomas attracted interest from several schools due to his outstanding performance. Major college basketball programs recognized his talent, particularly after his appearances at events like the John Lucas Camp.
His impressive stats and accolades garnered attention from recruiters, showcasing him as a strong prospect for collegiate basketball. These experiences set the stage for his commitment to play for the UTEP Miners, where he will now continue to develop his skills at the collegiate level.
KJ Thomas College Basketball Career
KJ Thomas has made significant strides in his college basketball career, showcasing his skills as a talented guard. His performances and statistics highlight his contributions to the team and potential for future success.
How Has KJ Thomas Performed in the NCAA
In his first season with UTEP during the 2024-25 season, KJ Thomas enters with impressive stats from high school. At Canyon Randall High School, he averaged 22.9 points per game and had standout games, including a remarkable 50-point performance.
Thomas also contributed 3.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game, proving himself as a versatile player. His shooting ability shone bright as he set a single-season record for three-pointers, making six in one game.
As he transitions to the NCAA level, his scoring prowess and playmaking skills will be crucial for the Miners as they aim for success in their conference.
Has KJ Thomas Won Any NCAA Awards?
Although KJ Thomas has yet to win any NCAA awards, his accolades from high school indicate a bright future. He was a three-star prospect, ranked as the fourth-best point guard in Texas by 247 Sports.
His leadership helped his high school team reach the Class 4A Final Four in 2023. Recognition for his performance could come as he adapts to the collegiate game. If he maintains his strong play, Thomas could become a contender for various honors by the end of the season.
What Is KJ Thomas’ NBA Draft Projection?
KJ Thomas’s NBA draft projection is currently uncertain, but his talent certainly makes him a player to watch. As he excels during his time at UTEP, his statistics and performance will significantly influence his draft stock.
Teams will be observing his ability to score, distribute the ball, and lead on the court. If Thomas can replicate his high school success, he may position himself for consideration in future drafts. NBA scouts often look for players who can adapt quickly, and his transition during the 2024-25 season will be key.
Similar Players to KJ Thomas
KJ Thomas shares similarities with several young guards in college basketball. Players like Marcus Carr and Jaden Ivey have exhibited the capacity to score efficiently while contributing in various aspects of the game.
Both are known for their shooting and ability to create opportunities for teammates, much like Thomas’s skill set. As he develops further, comparisons to these players could become more prominent, especially if he maintains high scoring averages and impacts games positively. These parallels could serve as motivation as he pursues his goals in basketball.
KJ Thomas NIL, Transfer Portal, Net Worth
KJ Thomas is a notable player in college basketball, recently signing with UTEP. He is starting to navigate the world of NIL deals while also having experience with the transfer portal. This section explores his current opportunities and financial outlook.
What NIL Deals Does KJ Thomas Have?
Currently, KJ Thomas has engaged in various NIL deals that enhance his visibility and earnings. As a three-star prospect, he is attractive to brands looking to connect with college sports fans.
While specific deals have not been publicly listed, the potential for partnerships exists due to his recruitment status and performance on the court.
NIL opportunities allow athletes like Thomas to profit from their image and likeness, which significantly impacts their financial situation. This is especially relevant in college basketball, where successful players have started securing lucrative contracts. The NCAA’s policy change allowing this has opened doors for athletes across the country.
How Much Is KJ Thomas Making in NIL?
Although specific dollar amounts for KJ Thomas’s NIL earnings have not been disclosed, it is evident that promising athletes can earn considerable sums.
College basketball players who secure popular NIL deals can make anywhere from a few thousand to over a million dollars, based on their social media following and marketability.
As he starts at UTEP, Thomas may further his earning potential through endorsements and sponsorships. The growing conversation surrounding financial opportunities for college athletes indicates that he is positioned to benefit from this changing landscape. The impact of NIL money in college sports is significant, offering players new avenues to secure their financial futures.
Has KJ Thomas Used the Transfer Portal?
KJ Thomas has made use of the transfer portal amid his college career. His decision to transfer demonstrates a strategic move for his athletic development and opportunities.
Initially committing to UTEP on September 22, 2023, he signed his letter of intent shortly after on November 8, 2023.
The transfer portal allows players to explore new programs that might fit their skills and goals better. This mechanism has become increasingly important for players seeking to enhance their playing time or to find a more favorable competitive environment.
As he transitions to UTEP, Thomas is likely looking to make a significant impact in his new program.
What Is KJ Thomas’ Net Worth?
KJ Thomas is a promising young basketball player who recently signed with UTEP. As a college student-athlete, his net worth is still quite modest.
Currently, many college athletes do not have significant earnings, especially before they join a professional league. However, KJ Thomas has several opportunities ahead of him that could increase his financial standing.
Key Factors Influencing His Net Worth:
- Scholarship Value: As a Division I athlete, KJ Thomas’s basketball scholarship covers tuition and other educational expenses. This can be worth tens of thousands of dollars each year.
- Endorsements and Sponsorships: With the recent changes in NCAA rules regarding athlete endorsements, KJ can begin to earn money through sponsorships. This could help him build his net worth while in college.
- Future Earnings: If he performs well at UTEP, opportunities to play professionally may arise. This could significantly elevate his income in the future.
At this stage, specific figures for KJ Thomas’s net worth are not publicly available.
As a young player just beginning his collegiate career, he is focused on developing his skills and gaining exposure.