Ntilikina Is The Future for France, But What About The New York Knicks?

New York Knicks, Frank Ntilikina
Apr 6, 2018; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina (11) moves the ball against Miami Heat shooting guard Rodney McGruder (17) during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

New York Knicks combo guard, Frank Ntilikina has been performing very well lately in FIBA. The 2017 New York Knick lottery pick has made 4-6 three-point field goals through two contests. French coach Vincent Collet trusted Ntilikina into the starting lineup after a teammate went down with an injury. Ntilikina is helping his French team tremendously on both ends of the court. Defensively he’s pressuring the ball and offensively he’s attacking more than usual. Ntilikina is also showing off his deep stroke. Confidence is pouring out of the Knicks second-year player. It’s beginning to look like all the hard work Frank been putting into his craft is finally showing on the big international stage. But will his confidence carry over to the other spotlight at MSG? Nicolas Batum has been giving praises towards Frank Ntilikina due to his recent signs of improvement. Batum states,

“He’s the future of the team. It’s great for him. Thomas Heurtel got hurt and now he has to put himself in a big spot to run this team. But he can do it. He has the talent and the personality to run this team and be great”.

The French teammates haven’t been facing the toughest competition as of late. However, Ntilikina will take any feel-good moment he can for his confidence. Building confidence comes with hard work and following through with the improved craft when it matters. The French Prince definitely has a future in FIBA French basketball. But, does he have a future with the New York Knicks? Yes, especially if the 21-year old continues showcasing his ability to knock down three-pointers and lockdown his opponent on the other end of the court. I’m pretty sure David Fizdale will be tuning in to these FIBA French matchups too see how French coach Vincent Collet uses Ntilikina on the basketball court.