2. Pau Gasol
As was quickly established in 2016-17, New York Knicks rising star Willy Hernangomez idolizes Pau Gasol. That’s far from surprising, as Gasol, a two-time NBA champion, ranks amongst the greatest European players in NBA history.
If the goal is to complement Kristaps Porzingis, who idolizes Kobe Bryant, then there’s no better player to study than the future Hall of Famer whom Bryant won two titles with.
Gasol made his name as one of the most fundamentally sound post players in NBA history. He finishes with both hands, has a smooth turnaround jump shot, has layers to his moves, and is one of the most skilled passing big men to ever play the game.
Hernangomez possesses somewhat similar traits as a skilled post player and passer, but polishing his game can best be achieved by studying the legend whom he patterns his game after.
It’s also worth noting that Gasol evolved from a traditional big man into the league leader in three-point field goal percentage in 2016-17 at .538. That’s a testament to his remarkable work ethic, which has enabled him to play at a star-caliber level for the better part of 16 years.
Hernangomez has the unique opportunity to learn directly from Gasol during their time with the Spanish national team, and he’s taking advantage of it daily.