NBA DRAFT

June 25, 2025

Liam McNeeley

Q. Could you take us through your emotions as the picks keep going and the camera finds you? What was that like as you were waiting?

LIAM McNEELEY: I got to watch all my guys get drafted, so it's pretty amazing. Cooper, Derik, Asa, Danny. Jase and Drake weren't here, but those are both my guys. So I'm super blessed to be here.

Q. Do you want to talk about who you're really looking forward to playing against in the league?

LIAM McNEELEY: Well, I think those guys, Derik, Cooper, Asa, those were my high school teammates. Getting to play against them is going to be amazing.

Q. There wasn't any disappointment that you had to wait so long?

LIAM McNEELEY: You know, there's no reason to have disappointment. I just got drafted to play in the NBA. Got to give all the glory to God. God has a plan and I'm just trusting in Him.

Q. How do you feel you're going to fit in with Charlotte, a young, up-and-coming team?

LIAM McNEELEY: I think I'm a very versatile player and can be plugged into any system. I've played many different roles in my career. I'm going to work my tail off and work as hard as anybody.

Q. You told me yesterday that Dirk Nowitzki is your idol. You had an opportunity to meet him back in the day. Now that you're in the NBA, are you going to be able to reach out to him at some point? I know it's probably not high on the priority list, but will your people contact his people?

LIAM McNEELEY: I sure hope so. Growing up in Dallas, like I said, Dirk is my hero. Won a championship in 2011. I was at the banner raising. I hope I get to grow that relationship.

Q. Liam, it seemed like there was a pretty big release of emotion when you did finally hear your name get called. What did that feel like?

LIAM McNEELEY: I've been dreaming of this moment since I was five years old. This is all I've ever wanted, and this is where the work really begins. So just all the memories and people that have helped me get to where I am, that's where the tears came from.

Q. As you kind of reflect back a little bit, what did it take to make tonight happen?

LIAM McNEELEY: It takes so much sacrifice and dedication and passion. I've missed out on a lot of hangouts with my friends, a lot of time with my family. But it's all worth it to me. I love basketball.