By Rafal Juc

 

Evan Fournier ('92), who is playing his second season at the highest level in France, seems is still improving his skills. 19-years-old swingman played last weekend his best game, leading Poitiers with 25 points. How is Frenchman getting ready to NBA Draft? Born in 1992 Fournier shows this season that is undeniably a future NBA player, but he has been already presenting solid level last seasons, when got the chance to play in first french division (Ligue Nationale de Basket). He finished last year with 6.4 points and 2.1 rebounds playing only 14 minutes per game. After gaining necessary experience and courage, talented French had a couple of amazing performances, for example against top league team SLUC Nancy (21 points). Fournier became the youngest player to score more than 20 points in French League history. He did it at a younger age than NBA Players Tony Parker, Mike Pietrus, Nicolas Batum or Boris Diaw.

So nothing surprisingly that Forunier was invited last year to take part in prestigious game Nike Hoop Summit, where the best american high school players face international prospects. Although fact that Frenchman started this game, he finished with 6 points (2/8 from the field) and 3 rebounds in 22 minutes. Despite not very impressive numbers Fournier showed his best to many NBA scouts, who for sure have took note on his talent.

Fournier did continue lucky streak during European Championship U20 last summer. Being one year younger than more of competitors he led France to Bronze medal with brilliant statistics: 16.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists, which helped him to be chosen in the All-Tournament Team. After these performances Fournier, who had decided earlier to continue his career in France for one more year, has became the top European prospect available to NBA draft.

So far 19-years-old swingman is sparkling in his country. Being main option on Poitiers backcourt Fournier is averaging 13.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. In addition he was selected to league’s All-Star Game but, what is the most important, French is still improving his game. Last weekend (14.01.2012) he went for his best game this season: scored not only 25 points, but combined 27 evaluation. What does make Fournier so special? 6'7'' prospect can play on shooting guard and small forward positions. He impresses with his maturity, mobility, excellent size and high skill level. Fournier knows how to attack basket and is very active with ball. Has got really fast first step and can penetrate with big ease, finishing despite pressure of defenders. Poitiers leader definitely has to improve his foot work, because is not impressive one-on-one defender and still is poor 3-point shooter. Thinking about NBA, it will be tough for him to get many minutes without putting few extra kilos. It should not be too problematic, especially that Fournier is terrific hard-worker and has got good body frame. 

Twitter of the author: @rafjuc

Photo: Poitiers