Partizan Belgrade appears poised to retain the services of French guard Frank Ntilikina, with sources close to the club suggesting that the team is leaning toward keeping him for the upcoming season. After weeks of internal discussions and speculation surrounding potential roster moves, Partizan head coach Željko Obradović and the management staff reportedly see value in giving Ntilikina another season to establish himself in the EuroLeague.
The 26-year-old guard, who joined Partizan after stints in the NBA with the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets, arrived in Belgrade with both pedigree and potential. Once a lottery pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, Ntilikina has long been touted for his defensive prowess, length, and basketball IQ. However, he has yet to fully deliver on his offensive promise, often leaving fans and coaches waiting for a more complete performance.
Despite early concerns about his adaptation to the European game after years in the NBA, Ntilikina has shown flashes of quality in a Partizan jersey. His defensive contributions have been strong, often disrupting opposing guards and contributing to the team’s perimeter resistance. While his scoring remains inconsistent, his playmaking and ball-handling have stabilized Partizan’s second unit and offered depth in the backcourt.
Partizan’s management has reportedly evaluated several options to potentially replace Ntilikina, including looking at younger Serbian prospects or more experienced EuroLeague guards. However, the club has not found a clear upgrade on the market who fits within its budget and long-term vision. With continuity being a key focus heading into the new season, keeping Ntilikina could be the most sensible path forward.
Coach Obradović, a master tactician with multiple EuroLeague titles under his belt, is believed to have played a significant role in advocating for Ntilikina’s retention. According to Serbian media, Obradović has expressed confidence in the French international’s ability to take a step forward in his second year with the team, citing his professionalism, defensive skill set, and potential for offensive growth.
“Frank has the tools — it’s just about putting everything together,” Obradović reportedly told club insiders. “He needs time and stability, and I believe we can help him become the player everyone expects him to be.”
Ntilikina’s presence also offers strategic flexibility. While Partizan already has a core backcourt with Kevin Punter and Yam Madar, Ntilikina provides a unique defensive presence off the bench and can play multiple positions. He is especially effective when paired with more offensively inclined guards, allowing them freedom while he handles tougher defensive assignments.
From the player’s perspective, Ntilikina is said to be comfortable in Belgrade and appreciates the structured environment and passionate fanbase. A return to NBA action seems unlikely in the near future unless he drastically elevates his game. At this stage of his career, stability and a consistent role could be more beneficial than another high-risk jump.
“I’m learning every day,” Ntilikina said earlier this summer in an interview with French basketball media. “Coach Obradović is demanding, but that’s what I need. I came here to grow, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
Partizan’s fanbase has shown mixed feelings about the possibility of Ntilikina staying. While many appreciate his defensive contributions and believe he deserves more time, others have pointed to his inconsistent scoring and questioned whether the team should be targeting more dynamic guards to push for a deeper EuroLeague run.
Still, with limited viable alternatives available and trust from Obradović, it appears the club is betting on internal development over external overhaul.
As preparations begin for preseason, Frank Ntilikina looks increasingly likely to remain in black and white. The upcoming campaign may be pivotal not just for his career, but also for Partizan’s ambitions to reassert itself as a EuroLeague powerhouse. Whether Ntilikina can rise to that challenge remains to be seen, but for now, Partizan is putting its faith in his untapped potential — and giving him the opportun
ity to prove his worth.
