Team USA hit the ground running with electric energy in the Gold medal game with Devin Booker‘s early 7 points. The Frenchmen, on the other hand, did not back down as they answered bucket for bucket. However, as aggressive as both teams were, Kevin Durant wasn’t a big fan of the Vicent Collet-led side’s physical defense. Of course, the stakes were high with ultimate sporting glory on the line, and the gameplay wouldn’t be short on intensity. However, Frank Ntilikina ended up getting into an early scuffle with KD.

“The US may be the most athletic, but Serbia has something unique.” these were his words before Team USA’s nailbiter against Serbia. In retrospect, his statement was correct because the hoopers did outpace and outclass the home side in the final. Right as Kevin Durant took charge in transition, Ntilikina hit him with a hard foul, which the Slim Reaper certainly didn’t fancy.

KD and Frank exchanged words, with the Frenchman letting him know that it was not going to be easy. The 26-year-old knows his way around the NBA stars, being a longtime player with the Knicks. Ntilikina had some of his best seasons in New York before he signed with the Mavs in 2021. He was a pretty decent bench player, but then again, he couldn’t keep up following his two seasons in Dallas.

Frank averaged 5.5 points, 2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in New York. His numbers were significantly low in Dallas and he went on to play for Charlotte. Sadly, Frank Ntilikina was waived off by the Hornets this year during the trade deadline. How did he respond to this? Frank let the NBA community know of his real talents, averaging 5 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists in the Olympics. He’s not much of a scorer but has definitely compensated for the same by snatching boards and dishing out dimes.

It will be interesting to see franchises go after him in the offseason along with other Frenchmen who showed up in the Olympics. Ntilikina did get some spotlight early on in the game, however, Kevin Durant did not waste any time answering back. KD went on to put up 15 points, with 4 rebounds and 4 assists. He had a great game as Team USA took the gold medal, 98-87.

However, Frank ended up playing only 7 minutes. At this point, it is to wonder which franchise would be interested in the 26-year-old. But then again, Ntilikina has taken his talents overseas.

Frank Ntilikina ‘feels passionate’ about resuming his career in Europe

The former Knick signed a two-year deal with the Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, as he looks to play in the EuroLeague. Now, this isn’t the first time Ntilikina will play professionally in Europe. Before his NBA draft, the French played for the SIG Strasbourg from 2015-17. Not only that, but he was also LNB Pro A’s Best Young Player for two consecutive years. It is safe to say that he’ll have a better time adapting to the game in Europe before he looks to make a comeback to the league.

Ntilikina played his best season with the Knicks during the 2019-20 season. However, after the season was suspended, the Knicks weren’t invited to the bubble, which left Frank with an incomplete season. The French Prince tried his best to prove himself in Dallas but couldn’t find his rhythm. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see Ntilikina play in the Euroleague after his 7-year NBA career.

The veteran hooper also seemed extremely positive about his move overseas. In a recent conversation with the media, he said, “I’ve just arrived and don’t know anyone yet, but I definitely feel the love and passion from Partizan fans.”

What are your thoughts on the French baller? Do you think he can make a comeback to the league? Let us know in the comments.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.