Banik was the #1 pick in the 1989 VFL draft and made his AFL debut for Richmond in Round 3 of the 1990 season against the reigning premiers Hawthorn on 14 April at Princes Park. He collected 14 kicks, 2 handballs and 1 mark as the Tigers went down by 30 points, 10.21 (81) to 15.21 (111).
During his time at Richmond, Banik contracted chronic fatigue syndrome which limited his on-field availability. He recovered from the illness but was eventually delisted by the club following the 1994 season. He won the Richmond reserves best and fairest award in 1994.