Isaac McKneely – Virginia NIL Deals, Net Worth, Player Information Overview and Career Highlights

Isaac McKneely is turning heads in Virginia men’s basketball, not just for his sharp shooting but for how he’s navigating the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. As a junior guard with plenty of buzz, he’s landed partnerships with several local businesses, giving him real earning power while still in college.

His steady climb in the NCAA makes him a player worth following, whether you’re tracking his numbers or just curious about his business moves. Not every day you see a college player balancing both so well.

People are watching McKneely closely. He led the ACC in three-point shooting and picked up plenty of honors back in high school too.

If you want a deep dive into his NIL deals, net worth, stats, and other highlights, check out the latest info on Isaac McKneely’s Virginia NIL deals and player information.

Isaac McKneely Player Profile

Isaac McKneely stands out as a shooting guard with a versatile skill set. He earned top honors in West Virginia high school basketball.

His athleticism and consistency, along with that smooth jumper, have built his reputation both at home and beyond.

Personal Background

Born on November 10, 2003, Isaac grew up in West Virginia. He went to Poca High School, a small place with a big sports tradition.

People noticed his work ethic early on. He quickly stepped up as a leader, both on and off the court.

His family backed him every step of the way. Coaches and teammates respected his quiet determination and focus.

Teachers in Poca talked about his discipline and character too. They saw he worked just as hard in the classroom as he did in the gym.

In his tight-knit community, younger players started looking up to him. His journey from small-town beginnings to big-time college hoops made him a local sports figure.

High School Achievements

McKneely’s time at Poca was loaded with awards. He picked up the West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year twice, in 2021 and 2022.

He also grabbed the Bill Evans Award two times as the state’s top boys basketball player.

During his senior year, he led Poca to a state AA championship. He averaged 22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block per game.

His steady production got him named Kanawha Valley Player of the Year and caught the eye of college scouts.

Here’s a quick look at his senior stats:

Season	Points	Rebounds	Assists	Steals	Blocks
2021-2022	22.0	6.0	4.0	1.0	1.0

He left Poca as one of its most decorated athletes. Future players have a high bar to clear.

Position and Playing Style

McKneely plays shooting guard, and his jump shot is about as reliable as they come. While he’s known for shooting, he brings more than that.

He moves well without the ball, finds space, and gives teammates a solid option. On defense, he uses his athleticism to guard different positions, often taking on the other team’s best shooter.

He’s not flashy, but he’s steady and rarely gets forced into bad decisions. That mix of skill and basketball IQ makes him a real asset in the backcourt.

Want more on his college role? Check out his Virginia Cavaliers player profile.

College Career at the University of Virginia

Isaac McKneely wasted no time making an impact with the Virginia Cavaliers. His shooting, work ethic, and smarts have brought him attention and results on both sides of the ball.

Recruitment and Commitment

As a high school star from Poca, West Virginia, McKneely drew interest from several big-name college programs. Coaches liked his scoring, ball handling, and leadership.

After weighing his options, he picked the University of Virginia. He pointed to Tony Bennett’s defense-first, team-first program as a big factor.

With his commitment, the Cavaliers added a proven scorer who fit their system. Local and national media followed his recruitment closely.

Fans and analysts expected him to contribute right away to Virginia’s tradition of strong basketball.

Performance with the Cavaliers

During his freshman season, McKneely showed flashes of what he could do. He played in 33 games, started once, and logged plenty of minutes.

He hit over 39% from three-point range and shot 42% overall for the 2022-23 season.

Table: Isaac McKneely’s Freshman Season Stats

Season	Games Played	Games Started	Minutes	FG%	3P%	FT%	Points Per Game
2022-23	33	1	708	.423	.397	.765	6.7

He gave Virginia reliable perimeter scoring and helped stretch defenses. His calm play and willingness to move the ball made him a key piece as the year went on.

Want more stats? Check out Isaac McKneely’s Virginia Cavaliers profile.

Role Under Tony Bennett

Coach Tony Bennett helped McKneely develop as a guard who fits Virginia’s system. Bennett’s approach is all about tough defense, smart choices, and patient offense.

McKneely improved in help defense and shot selection. He learned to move better off the ball, making him more than just a catch-and-shoot guy.

Bennett often praised his work ethic and willingness to learn. McKneely bought into the “Pack Line” defense, often guarding top ACC guards.

That experience made him better all around and got him more trust in big moments.

Academic Achievements

Isaac McKneely has put in the work in the classroom at Virginia too. He landed a spot on the All-ACC Academic Team.

Balancing basketball and school at this level? Not easy. He managed practices, travel, and his classes, keeping his grades up.

His academic success sets a strong example for teammates. Coaches and staff have noticed, calling him a positive representative for the program.

NIL Deals and Endorsements

As his role with the Cavaliers grows, Isaac McKneely’s name is getting bigger in the NIL space. His shooting and consistency have drawn brands and boosted his value off the court.

Major Endorsement Partners

McKneely has picked up several endorsement deals since college athletes got more freedom with NIL rules. The exact numbers aren’t public, but he’s definitely one of the college basketball names making moves.

Brands like his reputation for reliability and shooting, and they like his ACC exposure. Most deals involve apparel companies or local businesses looking to connect with his image.

You can find more about his endorsement activity at College Net Worth and the On3 NIL Tracker.

Table: Major Endorsement Highlights

Category	Example	Notes
Apparel	Undisclosed	Focused on athletic wear
Local Businesses	Undisclosed	Often food and retail
NIL Platforms	On3, College Net Worth	Deal listings

Social Media Presence

McKneely’s success on the court helps him reach more people on social media. He posts basketball highlights, behind-the-scenes clips, and sometimes promotional content tied to his endorsements.

That gives brands a direct line to a college sports crowd. His following on Instagram and Twitter keeps growing as he takes on a bigger role at Virginia.

There’s something genuine about his posts, which makes him a better partner for companies wanting to connect with younger fans.

Brands get more attention out of every deal thanks to his regular updates. Staying active online keeps his NIL value climbing.

Impact on Personal Brand

McKneely’s personal brand is all about dependability and skill. As he helps lead the Cavaliers, his net worth grows with both his game and his off-court appeal.

Brands want athletes who deliver, and his steady improvement only adds to that image. NIL deals help him reach way beyond Virginia fans.

Every new partnership or social media post boosts his recognition, making him more attractive to sponsors down the line. It’s a cycle that keeps pushing his NIL value higher.

His approach shows how a strong presence and genuine personality can open doors in today’s college sports scene. He’s set himself up well for more endorsement and NIL deals in the future.

Statistical Performance and On-Court Contributions

Isaac McKneely stands out for his efficient scoring, strong outside shooting, and smart playmaking skills. He’s grown into a guard who can change games on both ends.

Points Per Game and Scoring

McKneely proved himself as a steady scorer for Virginia. In the 2023-24 season, he started all 32 games and averaged 14.4 points per game, ranking among the team’s best.

He hit double figures in most games and had several outings over 20 points. He can create his own shot off the dribble or coming off screens, forcing defenses to stay honest.

Here’s a quick look at his 2023-24 scoring stats:

Season	GP	GS	PPG	High Scoring Game
2023-24	32	32	14.4	25 Points

His growth as a scorer year over year has helped him become a leader and a go-to option in crunch time.

Assists Per Game and Ball Handling

McKneely didn’t just score—he took care of the ball and saw the court really well. He averaged 2.9 assists per game this season, showing he could get teammates involved and keep the offense humming.

He often started offensive sets, especially when things got tense. You could see his decision-making in the low turnover numbers. That, combined with his assists, showed he was growing into his combo guard role.

McKneely’s quick first step and feel for spacing let him break down defenses. He set up shooters and bigs for easy looks. That mix of scoring and playmaking made him a real problem for ACC defenses.

Three-Point Shooting and Percentage

McKneely’s three-point shooting stands out. In the 2023-24 season, he knocked down threes at a high clip, making him one of Virginia’s most dangerous perimeter threats.

He didn’t shy away from big moments—he’d hit tough, high-pressure threes when Virginia needed them most. His three-point percentage ranked near the top of the ACC, and coaches often drew up plays to get him open for catch-and-shoot chances.

Defenses had to respect his jumper, and that opened up driving lanes for everyone else. His shooting really changed how teams guarded Virginia. If you want the full rundown on his stats, check out his Sports Reference profile.

Recognition and Awards

Isaac McKneely made a name for himself as a top performer in both high school and college. His strong play caught the eye of coaches, the media, and the ACC.

Conference Honors

Virginia relied on McKneely as a key player in the ACC, one of the NCAA’s toughest leagues. He stood out for more than just his scoring—his team play and defense got plenty of attention too. Coaches and reporters noticed how steady he was on both ends.

He earned a spot on the All-ACC Academic Team, which recognizes student-athletes who do well in the classroom and on the court. That award says a lot about his work ethic and commitment to UVA.

Here’s a quick look at some of his honors at Virginia:

Award	Year(s)
All-ACC Academic Team	2023, 2024
ACC Freshman Watch List	2023
ACC Player of the Week	Multiple times

Historical Milestones

Before college, McKneely already made waves at Poca High School in West Virginia. He won West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year twice, in 2021 and 2022. He also picked up the Bill Evans Award as the state’s top high school player both years. Those honors put him among the best to ever play high school ball in West Virginia.

His team, with McKneely leading the way, won a state title. He averaged 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game—pretty wild numbers for a high schooler. As a sophomore, he was named Kanawha Valley Player of the Year. All of that made him a top recruit for Virginia and the ACC. You can find more about his high school days at the Virginia Cavaliers site.

Transfer Portal Activity and Rumors

Isaac McKneely’s decision to enter the transfer portal got a lot of people talking. Schools all over the country started looking at him, and his next move could shift the landscape for multiple basketball programs.

Transfer Portal Timeline

McKneely officially entered the NCAA transfer portal after finishing his junior year at Virginia. He made the announcement after leading the Cavaliers in scoring and three-point percentage. Early May marked the window when he became available, and schools wasted no time reaching out.

Reports say McKneely entered as a “do not contact” transfer, which usually means he already knows which schools he’s considering. That status is common for players who know they’ll be in high demand. His move quickly became a hot topic for ACC rivals and national contenders, sparking all kinds of speculation.

Here’s a look at his key stats from his last season at Virginia:

Season	Games Played	Points Per Game	3PT %	Assists	Rebounds
2024-25	30	14.4	42.1	2.9	2.7

Potential Destinations

Interest in McKneely spread fast. Rumors linked him to big-name programs like St. John’s, Marquette, Texas, Iowa, and UConn. Within the ACC, North Carolina and Louisville came up as possible options, especially with their recent roster shakeups.

Insiders say McKneely would fit best with teams that need shooting and steady scoring. His status as the ACC’s top three-point shooter made him a hot commodity. If you want the latest updates, check out transfer portal news and landing spot breakdowns.

Outbound Transfers and Team Impact

McKneely’s exit is going to shake up Virginia’s lineup. He was their top scorer, team leader, and best shooter, so his departure leaves a big hole. The coaching staff now has to figure out how to replace his scoring and leadership.

This move is part of a bigger trend in college hoops—top upperclassmen using the portal to find new opportunities or maximize their value with NIL deals. Virginia’s coaches will need to rethink recruiting and maybe even their depth chart, since other players might follow his lead.

Without McKneely, the Cavaliers could have to adjust their rotations and shot selection. Losing a player of his caliber is bound to be a major talking point all offseason.

ACC Rivals and Competition

Isaac McKneely didn’t back down from ACC rivals. He built a reputation for stepping up in big games, especially when the stakes were high.

Rivalries with Louisville and Others

His battles with Louisville were always intense—maybe even more so since Louisville became his next stop after Virginia. In those tight ACC games, every possession felt huge.

Louisville got a close look at McKneely’s two-way game. His shooting made a difference in games where one or two plays decided the outcome. When he transferred there, it gave the rivalry a new twist and set the stage for some interesting future matchups.

Other ACC teams like Duke and Florida State always brought the heat, but Louisville games had something extra. Fans paid attention whenever McKneely faced his future squad.

Highlights:

• Key player in high-stakes ACC rivalry games
• Delivered clutch shots late in games

Key Matchups: Boston College, North Carolina, Clemson

McKneely shined against teams like Boston College, North Carolina, and Clemson. Each matchup forced him to adapt.

Boston College put a lot of energy into guarding the perimeter, so McKneely moved off the ball and got his shots off quickly. Against North Carolina, he faced pressure and still managed to hit big threes.

Clemson switched a lot on defense, making it tough to find space, but McKneely found a way. He kept proving he was one of the ACC’s top shooters.

Team	Games Played	Avg Points	3PT%
Boston College	2	13.5	41%
North Carolina	2	11.0	39%
Clemson	2	15.0	44%

Those numbers say a lot about his ability to stay consistent, even against tough defenses.

Performance Against Iowa and Louisville Cardinals

Outside the ACC, McKneely’s game against Iowa showed he could handle national competition. He scored in double digits and looked comfortable under pressure.

When Virginia played the Louisville Cardinals, McKneely often raised his game. He guarded top players and led his team in both scoring and three-point shooting. In 2024–25, he hit 42.1% from three and averaged 14.4 points, leading the ACC in both. For more on his Louisville move, see this detailed account.

Coaches and fans saw him as a difference-maker. He stepped up in big moments, especially against Louisville and Iowa, and that really boosted his reputation.

NCAA Tournament Experience

Isaac McKneely’s run with the Virginia Cavaliers included some high-pressure NCAA Tournament games. Even if he didn’t always put up huge numbers, he showed up as a steady guard.

Virginia Cavaliers’ Tournament Participation

Virginia kept its streak of NCAA Tournament appearances going while McKneely was there. As he got more experience, his role grew from a freshman contributor to a steady backcourt presence.

The Cavaliers played a slow, defense-first style, so games were often low scoring and tight. Every possession counted, and that showed in their tournament outings.

Here’s a quick look at their NCAA Tournament results with McKneely:

Year	Seed	Round Reached	Opponent (Final Game)	Result
2023	4	First Round	Furman	Loss
2024	11	First Four	Texas Tech	Loss

Individual Contributions

McKneely made his mark in the tournament with efficient shooting and solid defense. He logged big minutes in close games, spreading the floor and making quick decisions. Even if his stats weren’t flashy, he took open shots and played hard on D.

He showed a calmness you don’t always see in younger players. He guarded shooters, rotated well in Virginia’s pack-line defense, and hit timely threes. Turnovers stayed low, which fit right in with the team’s style.

A typical tournament stat line for McKneely: 5–10 points, 1–3 assists, and over 30 minutes on the court. That kind of trust from the coaching staff says a lot about his game.

Key Games and Highlights

Virginia fans remember McKneely for some clutch moments in those tense tournament games. In the 2023 First Round against Furman, he played long stretches and knocked down a couple of big threes that kept the Cavaliers close late. Still, Virginia lost in a wild finish.

In the 2024 First Four against Texas Tech, McKneely stayed on the floor for heavy minutes. Coaches trusted him in late-game situations, and he delivered a key second-half three plus a solid defensive rotation that briefly swung the lead back to Virginia.

He didn’t put together a legendary tournament run, but McKneely’s calm under pressure and reliable shooting really stood out. He looked like a guy who could handle the spotlight, which fits right into Virginia’s system. Maybe he’s not the main guy—yet—but he’s showing flashes of what he could become in future postseason games.

If you want more details about his career, check out Isaac McKneely’s player profile and stats.

NBA Prospects and Future Outlook

Isaac McKneely has built a pretty strong college résumé. People have noticed his shooting and his smarts on the court. He plays with efficiency and a high basketball IQ, so NBA scouts definitely have him on their radar for future drafts.

Scouting Reports and Draft Projection

McKneely’s perimeter shooting and quick release really catch people’s attention. He stands 6’4” and, during his sophomore season at Virginia, averaged 14.4 points per game while shooting over 42% from three. That’s made him one of the ACC’s best shooters. His instincts as a scorer and his knack for playing off the ball make him a good fit for today’s game.

Take a look at his main college stats:

Season	Points Per Game	3PT%	Assists	Rebounds
Sophomore	14.4	42.1%	2.1	3.2

A lot of draft outlets see him as a possible second-round pick, mostly because of his shooting and feel for the game. He’s efficient, but teams want to see him take another step defensively and as a playmaker before moving him into the first-round mix.

Preparation and Development

Virginia’s coaches have pushed McKneely to get ready for the pros. They challenge him to tighten up his ball-handling and become more versatile on defense. Every offseason, he works to build strength and endurance—two things NBA scouts really care about.

He spends a lot of time on shooting drills, strength training, and watching film. Those habits have paid off, and scouts seem to trust his work ethic and coachability. If he keeps adapting and working, he should have a shot at making the NBA jump.

Comparison to Past Cavaliers in the NBA

Virginia’s put several players in the NBA lately, like Malcolm Brogdon and De’Andre Hunter. McKneely’s college game is a bit like Brogdon’s when it comes to shooting, but he moves more without the ball and looks for spot-up chances. He’s not really like Hunter, who was a two-way forward—McKneely’s value is all about the perimeter and his shooting.

Some scouts think he could fill the same kind of role as other Virginia guys who made it by specializing and making quick, smart decisions. His shooting and production in the ACC put him in that conversation with other system-driven Cavaliers (https://247sports.com/player/isaac-mckneely-46097950/college-284378/). If he keeps growing, McKneely could easily become the next solid NBA player out of Charlottesville.

Coaching and Leadership Influence

Coaching has really shaped McKneely’s style and reliability. The guidance from high-profile coaches has influenced how he makes decisions and where he’s grown on the court.

Tony Bennett’s System

Tony Bennett’s fingerprints are all over McKneely’s game. Bennett demands defense, no exceptions. McKneely bought in, improving his focus and consistency on both ends. He picked up that team-first mindset—always looking for the best shot and moving the ball.

Bennett’s offense moves slowly and relies on patience plus smart shooting. McKneely found his spot as a dependable scorer in this setup. He hit big threes and kept his turnovers down. The structure of Bennett’s system helped him learn to read defenses and develop as a steady starter. He’s started 48 straight games and made at least one three-pointer in 32 in a row.

Key Stats Under Bennett

Season	Games Started	3-Point %	Points Per Game
2023-24	34	42%	11.6
2022-23	31	37%	6.7

Impact of Ryan Odom and Pat Kelsey

Tony Bennett’s retirement changes Virginia’s basketball scene in a big way.

Coaches like Ryan Odom and Pat Kelsey will now shape McKneely’s growth. Both of them prefer a faster pace and want to see more offense.

Odom likes to run an up-tempo offense and lets players have more freedom. That should give McKneely extra chances to create his own shot or attack off the dribble.

Pat Kelsey brings a ton of energy and expects pressure on both ends. He’ll probably push McKneely to play tougher defense and stay active in transition.

With these coaching styles, McKneely will need to adjust. He’ll have to make quicker decisions and keep up with a faster game, all while leaning on what Bennett taught him.