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Are Olympics helping Evan Fournier play his way back into NBA?
France shooting guard Evan Fournier. John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Are Olympics helping Evan Fournier play his way back into NBA?

Evan Fournier saw limited action in his last two NBA seasons, but in the knockout round of the Paris Olympics, he's proving he still has the skills.

Fournier put up 15 points in France's quarterfinal win over Canada Tuesday, then hit big shots Thursday in France's semifinal win over Germany, 73-69. He was the primary ballhandler when Andrew Albicy got in foul trouble and played hard-nosed defense, helping hold Germany to 33 first-half points.

The New York Knicks signed Fournier to a big contract before the 2021-22 season, but he lost playing time after the team signed Jalen Brunson and young players Quentin Grimes and Immanuel Quickley emerged at the guard position.

But because of the value of his contract as a trade chip, Fournier wasn't traded until last February's deadline, sent to the Detroit Pistons, who declined his $19M option for next season. While he's a 12-year NBA veteran, Fournier is only 31, and the Olympics demonstrate he has a lot left in the tank.

One team he won't be joining is the San Antonio Spurs, even with coach Gregg Popovich watching the semifinal in person. While Fournier has shown good chemistry with Spurs center Victor Wembanyama on the national team, San Antonio has filled its 15-man roster already, opting for Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes as their veteran additions.

As a 37.4 percent career three-point shooter, there should be a place for Fournier in the NBA. However, he might have to settle for a deal in Europe this late in the summer. And an Olympic medal.

Sean Keane

Sean Keane is a sportswriter and a comedian based in Oakland, California, with experience covering the NBA, MLB, NFL and Ice Cube’s three-on-three basketball league, The Big 3. He’s written for Comedy Central’s “Another Period,” ESPN the Magazine, and Audible. com

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