The name of Saliou Niang comes up repeatedly when discussing the future of Italian basketball, and Simone Fontecchio's eyes immediately light up when talking about his young teammate on the national team, born in Dakar in 2004. For the Miami Heat forward, the Italian-Senegalese is already one of the most promising young talents in Europe.

After spending his early years in Senegal, Niang moved to Italy at a young age, where he grew up and received his training. Today, he embodies a strong dual identity: Senegalese by birth, Italian by training, already an "azzurro" international, and destined for a high-level future.

Last summer, he was a standout at EuroBasket. Fontecchio doesn't hesitate to highlight his impact: "Saliou had a fantastic EuroBasket, he impressed everyone—not just me—with his athleticism. He has a bright future ahead of him."

After consistent progress in Trento, Niang was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers (58th pick in 2025). The American team preferred that he continue his development in Italy before considering his arrival in the NBA: he now plays for Virtus Bologna, one of the most prestigious clubs in Italy and the EuroLeague.

Fontecchio's message to the young NBA players who still need to develop before actually playing on American courts is clear:

“Everyone finds their own path. I wasn’t drafted, my journey has been unique. The important thing is to work hard and make sacrifices. When the opportunity arises—if it arises—you have to know how to seize it.”

The Miami Heat needed a jolt after five straight losses. They found it at the Barclays Center, defeating the Brooklyn Nets 106-95 in a game that was more physical than stylish. In this battle of nerves and defense, Simone Fontecchio confirmed his importance to coach Spoelstra's system, capable of impacting the game even when his shooting isn't on point.

After the match, the Italian didn't try to sugarcoat things: "It was crucial to win after five defeats. We all shot poorly, but the main thing was to bring back this victory."

Despite a difficult period in shooting, Fontecchio insists on his growing role in a team he supported as a child: "The important thing for me is to always contribute something. Even when the offense isn't going well, I try to contribute in other ways."

He also emphasizes the complete trust that Erik Spoelstra places in him:

"He supports me every day. Even when I don't score much, he pushes me to give my all. For a player, feeling that is essential."

For Miami, this success is just a small step, but it could be the first spark of a return to the playoff race.

For Italy and Senegal, Fontecchio's words confirm one thing above all: Saliou Niang is on the rise and represents one of the most promising talents of his generation.