Knicks sign 6-foot-9 forward with championship experience to help Jalen Brunson

The New York Knicks are still making adjustments to their roster ahead of the new NBA season. 

On Monday, the franchise signed a 6-foot-9 forward with championship experience at the professional level to help Jalen Brunson.

“The New York Knicks and No. 51 overall pick Mohamed Diawara have agreed on a standard, one-year rookie NBA deal,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Monday.

The Knicks traded down in the 2025 NBA Draft to select Diawara late in the second round. 

Diawara started his pro career with Paris Basketball, winning a EuroCup title with the club in 2024. 

Diawara also spent time with Poitiers Basket and Cholet Basket before taking his talents to the NBA this past summer. 

Thanks to solid ball handling for his height and impressive off-ball instincts in transition and half-court scenarios, the Paris, France native avoided going undrafted. 

Following the Summer League, Diawara transitioned to training camp/preseason with the Knicks. 

In five preseason contests, Diawara contributed 3.2 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, shooting 38.5% from the field.

Although the 20-year-old landed a standard contract with New York two days before opening night, he’s unlikely to secure a significant role with the franchise from the get-go. 

However, the Knicks’ recent contract decision indicates they are fully invested in Diawara’s future with the organization, which should enable him to remain positive as he figures out life in the NBA.

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