David Lee played for the Florida Gators under coach Billy Donovan and was selected by the Knicks in the 2005 NBA Draft.

On February 16, 2007, Lee, playing for the Sophomores, was named the Most Valuable Player in the Rookie Challenge, finishing with 30 points on 14 of 14 shooting from the field and 11 rebounds. During the 2008-09 season, he had career highs of 37 points and 21 rebounds to become the first Knicks player with 30 points and 20 rebounds in a game since Patrick Ewing.

On February 11, 2010, Lee was chosen to replace Allen Iverson to represent the East team at the 2010 NBA All-Star Game. He became the first Knick to make the All-Star team since Allan Houston and Latrell Sprewell appeared in the 2001 NBA All-Star Game. After playing with the New York Knicks he played with the Golden State Warriors.