Kemba on playing in New York: I plan on being a Hornet 'for a long time'

Kemba Walker is back in his hometown of New York for his summer basketball camp. And with rumors abound that the Charlotte Hornets may trade the point guard with his contract expiring next summer, he was asked if he could ever see himself as a member of the Knicks - or presumably the Nets, as well.

"As far as seeing me in New York, I doubt it," Walker said, according to The Athletic's Michael Scotto. "I'm a Hornet, and I'm planning on being a Hornet for a long time, so, yeah, I'm not sure about that."

New Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak said something similar last month, calling Walker the "focal point of this franchise," but conceded it could be a challenge reaching a new deal with him before he reaches free agency.

"I'm not planning to leave," Walker said. "It's not up to me right now."

Hornets owner Michael Jordan has said he would only consider trading Walker for another player he considers a star.

Charlotte added veteran point guard Tony Parker this month, something Walker sees as a big addition to the backcourt.

"I've been talking to him for a few days now, and I'm excited," he said. "I'm excited to learn from him, pick his brain every day, and become a better player from him."