Shane Larkin’s Transformation from Knicks Struggles to EuroBasket Stardom
A Challenging Start in New York
Over a decade has passed since Shane Larkin, the talented point guard, donned the New York Knicks jersey. Acquired from the Dallas Mavericks, Larkin entered the league with high expectations. Yet, his time in New York was short-lived, lasting just a single season. During that year, he struggled to find his footing, averaging a modest 6.2 points as the Knicks limped to a dismal 17-win campaign.
Now thriving with Anadolu Efes in Turkey, Larkin has transformed from an NBA prospect to a pivotal player on the international stage, showcasing his skills during EuroBasket and leading Turkey to the finals against Germany.
Reflecting on His Knicks Experience
As Larkin gears up for this crucial matchup, he took a moment to reflect on his time with the Knicks in an interview. The excitement he felt when he was traded to New York was palpable. “Obviously, I’m super excited to go play for the Knicks. Like, this is amazing,” he recalled. With the franchise’s storied history and the allure of playing under Phil Jackson and Derek Fisher, Larkin was ready to embrace the challenge.
However, things did not unfold as he had hoped. The fit was never quite right. Despite his skill set, which thrived in pick-and-roll situations, Larkin found himself struggling to adapt to the triangle offense that defined Jackson’s coaching philosophy. “Phil Jackson walks up to me, he’s like, ‘What are you doing?’ I said I was working on stuff,” Larkin shared. “He was like, ‘Yeah, we don’t really do a lot of that, so you need to go work on your pass fakes.’ I didn’t say this to him, obviously, ’cause he’s the greatest coach of all time.”
His brief stint with the Knicks left its mark, but it was also a catalyst for change. Larkin soon signed with the Brooklyn Nets, where he played one season before heading to Spain’s Baskonia in 2016. A brief return to the NBA with the Boston Celtics followed, but it was in Turkey that he finally found his rhythm.
Finding a Home in Turkey
Since joining Anadolu Efes in 2018, Larkin has blossomed into a key player, embodying the resilience and tenacity that characterize his game. His journey has taken him from the pressures of the NBA to the vibrant and competitive landscape of European basketball, where he has not only excelled but also embraced his new life. Larkin even gained Turkish citizenship, cementing his bond with a country that has welcomed him with open arms.
Now, as he prepares to face Germany in the EuroBasket finals, Larkin stands on the precipice of achieving a championship that has eluded him in the NBA. His evolution from a struggling rookie in New York to a celebrated star in Turkey is a testament to his hard work and determination.
Aiming for Glory
With the EuroBasket championship in sight, Larkin’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience in the face of adversity. His ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment demonstrates the power of perseverance. As the final against Germany approaches, all eyes will be on Larkin, not just as a player but as a symbol of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work.
