Joshua Aaron Hart Bio
Joshua Aaron Hart is an American professional basketball player for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He holds the Knicks franchise record for the most triple doubles in a single season. Hart played college basketball for Villanova, where he was part of the team that won the national championship in 2016 and earned numerous accolades during his time as a player. Known for his hustle plays, high motor, and rebounding ability, Hart has made a significant impact in the NBA since his debut in 2017.
Early Life and Background
Joshua Aaron Hart was born on March 6, 1995, in Silver Spring, Maryland, to Moses and Pat Hart. He has two siblings and grew up gravitating toward basketball, earning a reputation as a high-energy player. Hart attended Wheaton High School before transferring to Sidwell Friends School, where he excelled in basketball. As a junior, he averaged 20.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game, but faced academic challenges that nearly led to his expulsion. With support from his peers, he was given a second chance and went on to have a successful senior year, averaging 24.3 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 2.8 steals per game, leading his team to a strong record. After considering offers from Rutgers and Penn State, Hart signed a letter of intent with Villanova in November 2012.
Path to Basketball
Hart’s collegiate career began at Villanova, where he was a 2013–14 Big East All-Rookie Team selection, averaging 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game as a freshman. His performance improved significantly in subsequent years, culminating in a national championship win in 2016. As a junior, he was named a third-team All-American and helped lead the Wildcats to their second national title. Hart’s senior year saw him recognized as a consensus first-team All-American, solidifying his status as a top player in college basketball. He entered the NBA draft in 2017, where he was selected by the Utah Jazz as the 30th overall pick before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Joshua Aaron Hart Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Hart began his professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he made an immediate impact. In his first start on December 14, 2017, he recorded a double-double against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite facing injuries, including a fractured hand, Hart finished his rookie season averaging 7.9 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He was named the MVP of the 2018 NBA Summer League after averaging 24.2 points per game. In March 2019, he underwent a procedure on his knee, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season.
Breakthrough (2019–2022)
In July 2019, Hart was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of a blockbuster deal for All-Star Anthony Davis. During his time with the Pelicans, he continued to develop as a player, scoring a season-high 27 points in February 2021. He recorded a career-high 11 assists in November 2021, showcasing his versatility on the court. In February 2022, Hart was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he had a standout performance, scoring a career-high 44 points against the Washington Wizards.
Notable Works and Milestones
Hart’s career took another turn in February 2023 when he was traded to the New York Knicks. He made an immediate impact, recording 11 points, four assists, and seven rebounds in his debut. Throughout the 2024–25 NBA season, Hart set a franchise record for the most triple-doubles in a single season, achieving nine triple-doubles and averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game.
Joshua Aaron Hart Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joshua Aaron Hart has received several nominations for his outstanding performances, particularly during his college years and early professional career.
Joshua Aaron Hart Awards Won
Joshua Aaron Hart has won numerous awards, including the Summer League MVP in 2018 and accolades for his collegiate achievements, such as the NCAA championship in 2016 and being named a consensus first-team All-American in 2017.
Joshua Aaron Hart Family
Joshua Aaron Hart is married to Shannon Phillips, and the couple welcomed twin sons in May 2023. Hart has a close-knit family, and his parents, Moses and Pat Hart, have been supportive of his basketball career from a young age.
Personal Life
Hart enjoys playing video games, particularly Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, on his Twitch channel. He is known for his love of candy, especially Mike and Ike, and has been seen consuming large amounts before games. Additionally, he is a fan of the New York Yankees and the Washington Commanders. Hart has also been involved in charitable efforts, donating to relief efforts for the Napa Valley wildfires in 2020.
