The New York Knicks are transferring ahead with plans to signal second-round choose Mohamed Diawara to a normal rookie contract, in line with Ian Begley of SNY.
Diawara, chosen with the No. 51 choose within the 2025 NBA Draft, had initially been anticipated to affix the crew on a two-way deal. The entrance workplace now seems set to commit a full roster spot to the 20-year-old ahead as coaching camp approaches.
The French prospect confirmed promise throughout the 2025 Summer season League, averaging 7.0 factors, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per recreation in 22.3 minutes. His defensive versatility and rebounding drew constructive critiques, although his exterior capturing stays a piece in progress.
On the membership stage, Diawara most lately performed for Cholet Basket, the place he logged 5.8 factors and three.1 rebounds throughout 27 appearances in France’s prime division. His position expanded within the postseason, producing 10.5 factors per contest.
Begley famous that the Knicks’ cap sheet leaves them with room so as to add Diawara on a rookie minimal contract whereas nonetheless sustaining flexibility for a veteran signing. New York has hosted exercises for a number of free brokers, together with heart Thomas Bryant, who impressed throughout open fitness center classes.
The Knicks will nonetheless must make choices concerning different roster strikes. Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet have been lately added. Guard Miles McBride and ahead Pacôme Dadiet have been recognized as potential commerce candidates, although Begley reported the group values McBride extremely and has resisted transferring him previously.
Diawara brings worldwide expertise as nicely. He performed for Paris Basketball and Poitiers Basket 86 earlier than becoming a member of Cholet, and he earned MVP honors on the 2022 Basketball With out Borders Europe camp. He additionally helped France seize a gold medal on the 2024 FIBA U20 EuroBasket, showcasing his defensive presence and motor.
The Knicks, below new head coach Mike Brown, enter the 2025–26 season with a revamped roster highlighted by Karl-Anthony Cities, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges. The addition of Diawara offers New York one other younger piece with long-term upside.
