Offensive Game
Effective as a lob threat and around the rim; limited range and post touch still developing.
Career Journey
Los Angeles Clippers
2022-2024
Charlotte Hornets
2024-present
NBA Hustle Award (2025-26)
Won the league's Hustle Award after a breakout season anchored by relentless work on the offensive glass.
Top-five offensive rebounder
Averaged 3.7 offensive rebounds per game in 2025-26, fifth-most in the NBA, over 73 games (47 starts).
Career-high efficiency
Set career bests of 7.9 points and 8.7 rebounds on 63% shooting; Charlotte guaranteed his 2026-27 salary.
| Season | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 73 | 7.9 | 8.7 | 1.9 | 63.1% | 50.0% |
Diabate's game is built on motor, not moves. A 6-foot-11 French big taken 43rd out of Michigan by the Clippers in 2022, he bounced through two-way limbo before Charlotte handed him real minutes — and in 2025-26 he turned effort into a genuine breakout. Starting 47 of 73 games, he posted career highs of 7.9 points and 8.7 rebounds while shooting 63% from the field, the kind of efficiency that comes from living around the rim rather than settling. The number that defines him: 3.7 offensive rebounds per game, fifth in the entire league, each one a bonus possession his team didn't have to earn twice. The NBA recognized it with the Hustle Award. He isn't a floor-spacer or shot-creator yet, but as a rim-runner and glass-cleaner on a bargain deal, he is one of the better values on Charlotte's books.
Offensive Game
Effective as a lob threat and around the rim; limited range and post touch still developing.
Defensive Game
High motor and active hands; shot-blocking instincts are strong with developing positioning.
Intangibles
Basketball IQ growing steadily with NBA experience; positioning and timing improving.
Off the Court
Basketball development advocacy for West African youth
Did You Know?
Diabate is from Conakry, Guinea — a West African nation making its mark on NBA rosters
He developed at IMG Academy alongside other elite international prospects before committing to Michigan
His story represents the NBA Basketball Without Borders program at its most successful — identifying raw talent globally and providing a pathway to the highest level
Career Honors
NBA Basketball Without Borders participant
Official Jerseys
99.99
Check Price on NBA Store59.99
Check Price on NBA Store74.99
Check Price on NBA StoreCharlotte Hornets · Official
79.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
79.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
22.49
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
74.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
Shop · Worldwide
This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Charlotte Hornets
Charlotte Hornets
Subscribe for in-depth player analysis and stat breakdowns delivered to your inbox.
