Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson made a quick trip to Bologna, Italy, this week to watch forward Saliou Niang, the club’s 2025 second-round draft pick, compete in Virtus Bologna’s playoff series.
Speaking to local reporters after the game, Atkinson called the 22-year-old “a strong, determined young man” and highlighted the player’s energy and leadership on the court. “I believe he will be part of our franchise’s future,” the coach said, according to reports from Federico Bettuzzi of Tuttosport and Alessandro Maggi of Sportando.
Niang spent the past season with Virtus Bologna as part of the Cavaliers’ strategy of allowing international prospects additional development time overseas. While Atkinson’s remarks did not confirm when the 6-foot-8 forward might join the NBA roster, they underline the organization’s confidence in his progress.
Atkinson’s personal visit signals the Cavaliers’ ongoing commitment to monitoring Niang closely as the team shapes its long-term plans.
Source: Hoops Wire
