Porzingis On WFAN: I Can't Wait To Learn From Phil Jackson, Carmelo
NEW YORK (WFAN) -- With the fourth pick in Thursday night's NBA draft, the Knicks selected 19-year-old Latvian Kristaps Porzingis.
The crowd at Barclays Center booed when the pick was made, but many experts are applauding team president Phil Jackson for taking the 7-foot-1 forward.
Not only does he possess impressive size, but he's an excellent shooter. There are always risks when it comes to taking relatively unknown European players, but Jackson seems confident that the big man has what it takes and will be able to contribute in a big way.
Kristaps Porzingis
Porzingis chatted with WFAN host Mike Francesa on Friday, and he sounded ecstatic about joining the 'Bockers and helping them rebuild following the worst season in franchise history.
"I was hoping it was gonna be the Knicks," Porzingis said. "It was my dream to be a Knick. Until I heard my name called, I had no idea. Once I heard my name called, it was such a great feeling to be a part of this organization ... Phil is a legend. For me, being able to learn from him and just be around him will be great from a learning standpoint.
"He's a legend, and I'm very grateful that he picked me and I'll be able to be around him now day-to-day."
According to reports, Carmelo Anthony is fuming over New York's draft moves. But the teenager can't wait to get on the court with the face of the franchise.
"For me, it will be great to be around Carmelo," Porzingis said. "Learn from him, what he does on and off the court; how he carries himself, how he takes care of himself, how hard he works. That will be great to follow him day-to-day and be around him."
Porzingis played for Cajasol Seville in the Spanish League last season, averaging 10.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and one block in 33 games.
Jerian Grant
The Knicks only had one pick in the draft, but Jackson wasn't finished after selecting Porzingis. In an unexpected move, he traded shooting guard Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Atlanta Hawks for the rights to Notre Dame guard Jerian Grant.
Grant was selected with the 19th pick by Atlanta.
The 6-foot-5 All-American averaged 16.5 points and 6.7 assists for the Irish in 2014-15.
