What’s not to like about a 6’8” wing with seven-foot wingspan?
We thought Knicks Team President Leon Rose might do something tricky on Draft Night. Indeed, he gave us a head-scratcher. First, he swapped the 50th pick for the Clippers’ 51st pick, and then he used that selection to draft someone to chat with Pacome Dadiet on the bench.
With the 51st pick, New York selected Mohamed Diawara, a 20-year-old, 6’8” French forward who has played professionally with Cholet Basket in the French LNB Élite.
Diawara has logged minutes at power forward and center, though he’s also spent time guarding wings and even primary ball-handlers. He rose through France’s youth national system, playing at the U16 through U20 levels, and his international reps have helped him build a strong defensive foundation.
He began his pro career with Paris Basketball before joining Cholet, where he saw more action in both domestic league play and the Europe Cup. He isn’t expected to come over soon—he remains draft-and-stash material—but the Knicks are betting on his upside.
Diawara has length (reportedly a 7’1”+ wingspan), strength through his core, and a frame that can still add size. He’s a fluid athlete who defends multiple positions, makes plays out of closeouts, and occasionally flashes some on-ball creation. He’s raw, but the physical tools and defensive instincts are there.
He remains a long-term project, but New York clearly sees something worth developing. According to Ian Begley, we’ll see him in action at Summwr League. Can’t wait. Welcome, Mohamed!
Mohamed Diawara will play at Summer League with the Knicks – contract details TBD.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 27, 2025