Mo Dioubate’s journey to Lexington didn’t start with a scholarship offer or an early commitment. In fact, during his high school recruitment, Kentucky never reached out. But growing up in the same Queens neighborhood as former Wildcat standout Hamidou Diallo, Dioubate’s admiration for Kentucky basketball began long before he stepped onto a college court.
Diallo’s electric performances at Rupp Arena alongside future NBA stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kevin Knox, Nick Richards, and Jarred Vanderbilt during the 2017-18 season left a lasting impression on a young Dioubate. The energy, the legacy, and the way Diallo was celebrated back home fueled Dioubate’s dream.
“Seeing how much love he got where I’m from made me love Kentucky even more,” Dioubate shared in a recent interview with BBN Tonight’s Maggie Davis.
Though his college path began elsewhere, Dioubate’s dream has finally come true. After spending two seasons with Nate Oats and the Alabama Crimson Tide, the 6-foot-7 forward has transferred to Kentucky and is embracing his long-awaited moment.
“This was always my dream school,” he said. “To actually wear the jersey now? It’s one of the best things that’s happened to me. I doubted myself at times, but now I get to live out what I’ve always wanted.”
From Crimson to Kentucky Blue
The transition hasn’t been without its surreal moments. After years of wearing red at both Putnam Science Academy and Alabama, Dioubate admitted it’s still a bit jarring to see himself in Kentucky blue.
“I’ve been in Lexington a few weeks now, but sometimes when I’m in the gym alone, I stop and think — ‘Wow, I’m really here.’”
Dioubate brings with him valuable experience from playing in the SEC, including being part of a Final Four team with Alabama. He now has two years of eligibility to leave his mark at Kentucky under new head coach Mark Pope, someone he already holds in high regard.
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The Pope Connection
One of the biggest reasons Dioubate chose Kentucky was the connection he felt with Pope during the transfer process. Unlike most coaches, Pope relies heavily on FaceTime rather than texts or calls — and that personal approach made a difference.
“He visited me and my family in New York. That meant a lot — especially because it’s not the best neighborhood,” Dioubate said. “He came with his own family, comfortable and genuine. That showed me how much he cares.”
Pope’s fast-paced, analytics-driven style also appeals to Dioubate, who’s excited to expand his game — especially his shooting. Though he hasn’t taken many three-pointers in his college career so far, he’s planning to increase that volume and become a more versatile threat.
“We both like to play fast, and now I’m focused on adding more threes to my game,” he said.
Ready for the Moment
With summer workouts underway and the full roster in Lexington, Dioubate and his new teammates are focused on building chemistry and preparing for a season that carries high expectations. And Dioubate, finally wearing the jersey he dreamed of, is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
“I’m ready to work. We’re ready to give Big Blue Nation a season to remember,” he said. “We’re chasing number nine. Let’s go get it.”
