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Former Knicks Star Closer to Olympic Dreams

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, October 25th 2025 at 7:14 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Donte DiVincenzo’s Olympic Aspirations: From Knicks Guard to International Hopeful

Donte DiVincenzo, once a bright‑skinned point guard for the New York Knicks, has shifted his focus from the NBA hardwood to a dream that stretches beyond the NBA floor: representing the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 27‑year‑old, whose journey began in New York’s inner‑city courts, has turned the narrative of his professional career around, turning adversity into an international opportunity.

From the East River to the NBA

DiVincenzo’s path to the NBA was steeped in grit. Raised in Queens, he played high school ball at St. Anthony’s and was a three‑star recruit who earned a scholarship at the University of Florida. In his senior year (2015‑16), he posted 12.8 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, guiding the Gators to a 29‑10 record and a berth in the NCAA tournament. His performance earned him a spot on the SEC All‑Defensive Team and a National Invitational Tournament championship.

The 2017 NBA draft saw the Knicks select DiVincenzo with the 30th pick. He quickly became a fan favorite, delivering flashes of brilliance during the 2017‑18 season. Averaging 11.9 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.4 rebounds, he helped the Knicks secure a playoff berth, and his 12‑point, 6‑assist performance in Game 1 of the 2019 Eastern Conference Finals highlighted his potential as a playmaker.

Despite flashes of promise, injuries and roster shifts limited his playing time. A torn left meniscus in 2020 required surgery and a lengthy recovery period, and by the end of the 2021‑22 season, DiVincenzo had been waived by the Knicks. He briefly joined the Detroit Pistons' training camp roster before being cut, and later played a handful of games in the G League with the Salt Lake City Stars.

The Olympic Dream

Following his departure from the NBA, DiVincenzo turned his attention to international play. He has cited his experience with the U‑18 U‑20 national teams as a formative influence on his Olympic ambition. In 2018, he was selected to represent the United States at the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, recording an average of 9.1 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Though the team did not qualify for the World Cup that year, his performance earned him recognition as a “next‑generation” guard capable of stepping onto a global stage.

In a recent interview with ESPN, DiVincenzo stated, “I grew up dreaming of wearing the red, white, and blue. Playing in Paris would be a dream come true.” He highlighted the importance of his defensive tenacity and leadership qualities as assets that could benefit the U‑S national team, especially in the guard rotation where depth and versatility are prized.

DiVincenzo’s journey to the Olympic squad is not merely about talent; it is a testament to his resilience. A 2023 feature in The New York Times followed his rehabilitation and his participation in a series of pre‑Olympic camps held in Orlando, where he competed against NBA G League players and former NBA stars. The camp also served as a talent‑scouting event for USA Basketball’s head coach, Mike Krzyzewski, who praised DiVincenzo’s “intelligent play” and “commitment to improvement.”

Bridging the Gap Between NBA and International Play

USA Basketball’s selection process for the Olympic roster is rigorous, involving multiple training camps, intra‑team scrimmages, and a final roster cut. DiVincenzo’s performance in these settings is closely monitored. He has reportedly earned praise for his defensive prowess, especially his ability to guard multiple positions—a skill that has become increasingly valuable in the modern NBA and FIBA game.

An additional source, a USA Today article, noted that DiVincenzo’s experience playing with the Knicks’ point‑guard rotation provided him with a deep understanding of how to orchestrate a team offense. “He knows how to read the defense, create space, and execute high‑pressure plays,” said former Knicks head coach Derek Fisher. “These are qualities that the Olympic squad needs.”

The Road Ahead

DiVincenzo’s next steps involve maintaining peak physical condition, participating in the USA Basketball National Team camp, and staying competitive in the NBA G League and overseas leagues. He signed with the San Diego Wave in the WNBA’s newly established league for the 2024 season, a move that will keep him in the spotlight while he seeks to secure a spot on the Olympic roster.

While the 2024 Paris Olympics present a formidable challenge, DiVincenzo’s story remains one of perseverance. From a high‑school standout in Queens to a professional guard who faced injuries and roster changes, he now embodies the underdog spirit that resonates with fans worldwide. If he secures a spot on the U‑S team, his story will serve as an inspiration for young athletes who dream of representing their country on the grandest stage.