Proud of His Malian Roots
Born and trained in France, Mohamed Diawara has never lost sight of his roots. The son of Malian parents, he carries his African heritage as a daily source of motivation: A pride that shapes both his approach to basketball and his outlook on life.
“It’s important for me to represent where my parents come from,” he told Valeria Rubino in an exclusive interview. “That pride is with me every single day.”
A Journey Built on Patience and Resilience
Diawara’s career reflects a steady blend of patience, hard work and resilience. Developed at the INSEP — France’s elite basketball academy and a true factory of national talent — he began his professional journey with Paris Basketball in 2021, before continuing his growth at Poitiers and, later, Cholet.
His potential quickly drew attention beyond French borders. In the summer of 2022, Diawara was named MVP of the Basketball Without Borders camp in Milan, standing out in front of NBA and FIBA scouts. On the international stage, he confirmed his rise with France’s youth teams, winning bronze at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup and gold at the 2024 U20 EuroBasket.
Living the NBA Dream
Today, the 20-year-old is living what he describes as a childhood dream come true: the NBA.
“It’s been a goal of mine since I was very young,” he said with emotion. “To experience it from the inside is incredible.”
During his rookie season with the New York Knicks, Diawara has navigated between the NBA roster and the G League, a developmental pathway that is allowing him to gradually adapt to the demands of basketball’s highest level. Surrounded daily by players he once watched on television, he is learning the rhythm, intensity and professionalism required to succeed.
Yet beyond the level of play, it is the collective spirit that has left the strongest impression.
Camaraderie Inside the Knicks Locker Room
During a locker-room interview, the 6-foot-9” forward explained that he draws inspiration from last season’s rookies and from players at his position, notably Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby. He also mentioned Deuce McBride, who happened to overhear the comment, walked over with a smile and thanked him warmly, joking along the way.
The moment was spontaneous and telling, revealing the locker-room culture within the New York Knicks, built on respect, humility and the passing of knowledge between generations.
Eyes on the Future
Diawara’s ambitions are clear: continue developing, establish himself in the league and compete at the highest level.
“My goal is to improve every day, stay here as long as possible and chase a championship,” he said.
To young players dreaming of following a similar path — whether in Africa, France or elsewhere — Mohamed Diawara delivers a simple message, consistent with his own journey: work every day. Because, as he says without hesitation, there are no shortcuts, only hard work truly pays.
