Ntilikina's statements upon his arrival (vid)
Our team’s new signing, Frank Ntilikina, arrived in Greece on the afternoon of Saturday (27/09), and in his first statements as a 'red & white' expressed his excitement to meet his new teammates and play in front of Olympiacos' fans.
The French guard said that the approach from the club's presidents was decisive in his decision, and he also spoke about the goals for the season, the presence of his national teammates, and the experience he looks forward to having at the SEF and in the big derbies.
Regarding his first thoughts upon arriving in Greece and joining Olympiacos, he said: “I’m very happy to be here and to get started. The team is playing tonight, so I won’t have the chance to be with them, but I’ll watch the game, complete all the procedures to officially become an Olympiacos player, then I’ll hit the gym, meet the guys, the whole team, and then step on the court so we can start working.”
On his goals for the current season, he emphasized: “Big goals, big ambitions. This is a new chapter for me. I’m grateful for everything I experienced with Partizan, but here the objectives are clear every year. I don’t need to say what they are; we all know the goals are big.”
On the fact that Evan Fournier was excited about the transfer, and about the friends he’ll meet from the French national team: “Evan, Moustapha… having teammates that I also play with on the national team is great. It's a big thing to be able to play together, and I can’t wait. Evan actually helped me a lot throughout this process. As for Mathias (i.e. Lessort), sometimes it’s even more fun to play against your friends, because as brothers we like to tease each other. It’ll be a great situation. At the end of the day, we’re playing basketball, and rivalries like the ones we had in Serbia are always fun, always with respect for the sport, and giving 100% to defend our colors.”
On whether he’s ready for the Greek fans: “Definitely! I’ve heard so much. Last year, I didn’t get the chance to play here, but I’m excited to step on the court, both home and away, and experience the season with Olympiacos.”
On the approach from the club’s presidents: “They made it clear that they wanted me and that they have a vision for the team and for me personally; with the role they envision for me. When you’re in an environment that sees you, supports you, and wants you to succeed, everything becomes easier and it aligns with your ambitions. I hope we go far together and have a successful season.”
WATCH ALL HIS STATEMENTS IN DETAIL IN THE VIDEO BELOW: