“Betrayed” - Knicks fans in shambles as Nova quartet breaks up before season debut with Donte DiVincenzo’s departure

The projected "Nova" quarter in New York is not to be after Donte DiVincenzo was sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves as a part of the package that saw All-Star forward Karl-Anthony Towns shipped to the Knicks. Fans were left in shambles over the development and expressed their thoughts on social media.

DiVicenzo, who had an impressive run with the Knicks last season, was supposed to figure prominently alongside fellow Villanova alums Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and newly acquired Mikal Bridges in the upcoming season. However, on Friday, the explosive guard was sent to Minnesota, along with All-Star Julius Randle and a first-round pick for Towns.

Knicks fans shared their reactions on X, formerly Twitter. One fan could only imagine what Donte DiVincenzo felt after learning of the trade, writing:

"I know that man feel betrayed"

"Heartbreak moment,' another one surmised."

"'It really hurts on Donte Part,' one user underscored."

Some comments, meanwhile, pondered over what the "Nova quartet" could have been in New York.

"Didn't even get to see the Nova Knicks play at least one game together," one fan rued.

Another lamented:

"RIP Nova Knicks: Will never be forgotten, that you never started."

There were some who were not at all sold with the Knicks trading away Donte DiVincenzo.

"'Damn they did them dirty. And actually Randle > KAT! L for NY," one asserted.

"'Horrible trade," another put it simply.

Donte DiVincenzo played a key role in the rotation of the Knicks last season, both as a starter and off the bench, helping them reach the Eastern Conference semifinals. He averaged a career-high 15.5 points, to go along with 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.3 steals.

In 2016, he was a part of NCAA champions Villanova, along with Brunson, Hart and Bridges.

---

Donte DiVincenzo says he wanted to develop a relationship with the entire Knicks organization

While excited to team up with his Villanova teammates when he joined the New York Knicks last season, Donte DiVincenzo also reiterated that he wanted to develop a relationship with others involved with the team.

He shared in an interview with the New York Post in October last year, highlighting his excitement to play for the Knicks and getting to know everybody and win with them. DiVincenzo said:

"Me, I like to personally try to develop each relationship with every single guy, coaches and everything. Even in training camp, try to sit with as many different guys as possible, not start this while 'Nova thing.'"

DiVincenzo had a great relationship with his Knicks teammates, fitting his game, which bore solid results. Unfortunately, it only lasted for a season, as he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.