Kenny Thomas
- Former NBA Player for the Houston Rockets and several others
- Know for his work with youth mentorship to emphasize skill, discipline, and values
- Media Host, Entrepreneur, Community Leader
Kenny Thomas is a former NBA forward who spent 11 seasons with the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Sacramento Kings. Selected 22nd overall in the 1999 NBA Draft, he brought leadership, grit, and consistency to the court, appearing in the playoffs three times and earning induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame in...
read the restKenny Thomas is a former NBA forward who spent 11 seasons with the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Sacramento Kings. Selected 22nd overall in the 1999 NBA Draft, he brought leadership, grit, and consistency to the court, appearing in the playoffs three times and earning induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.
Born into a military family, Thomas grew up in Georgia, Germany, and Texas before settling in New Mexico, where he became a standout at Albuquerque High and the University of New Mexico. As a Lobo, he earned All-American honors, was named WAC Freshman of the Year, twice won WAC Tournament MVP, and graduated as the program’s all-time leading rebounder and second-leading scorer.
After retiring from basketball, Thomas built a multifaceted career as a media personality, entrepreneur, and community leader. He hosts “Lobos Live with Kenny Thomas” on KKOB, “Kickin’ with Kenny Thomas” on Cumulus Radio, and the weekly “Unfiltered with Kenny Thomas” podcast—where sports, culture, and leadership intersect.
He is the founder of KT Legacy Wines, a private-label brand produced with Guglielmo Winery, and leads Zia Sports Academy, his official AAU program, running youth basketball tournaments and camps that emphasize skill, discipline, and mentorship.
A committed advocate for youth empowerment and public safety, Thomas works closely with the New Mexico Department of Health, serves on the board of the New Mexico Black Chamber of Commerce, and partners with city councilors across the state on initiatives supporting economic development, mental health, and community engagement. He is also a proud member of World Sports Alumni, connecting with elite athletes worldwide.
Whether on the court, behind the mic, or in the community, Kenny Thomas continues to elevate, inspire, and lead.
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