Diakite To Join The Hawkeyes
Longtime Connecticut prospect Badara Diakite of the South Kent School has announced his commitment to Iowa.
Diakite’s journey has been defined by years of hard work. Originally from Mali, he moved to the United States at the age of 14, settling in Connecticut and beginning a basketball career that has consistently drawn attention.
Towering at 6’7” upon his arrival, Diakite’s combination of size, mobility, and fluidity made him stand out early. For over five years, he’s been in the spotlight, earning top rankings from various media outlets and handling the high expectations that come with them.
In discussing those early pressures, Diakite reflected on his adjustment to the U.S. game: "Since I got here, I’ve just been working on my skills to get better each year. I didn’t really feel the outside pressure because I was just learning how the game is played in the U.S. It took time before I got used to it."
ESPN once ranked Diakite in the top 25 nationally while he was still in his freshman season, even placing him in the top 10 of his class. During his time at Northwest Catholic, he delivered numerous standout performances in CIAC play, drawing high-major offers and establishing himself as a rising star in the region.
At Northwest Catholic, Diakite formed a dynamic duo with Alabama commit London Jemison, both hailing from Bloomfield, Connecticut. Together, they reached the state championship game during their sophomore year but fell to Bristol Central, led by future NBA player Donovan Clingan. In his commitment video, Diakite took time to thank longtime Northwest Catholic coach John Mirabello for his guidance on and off the court.
In 2023, Diakite transitioned to the prep ranks, joining South Kent School, fresh off a NEPSAC AAA championship.
Now standing at 6’9”, Diakite’s skill set has continued to evolve. He combines speed, lateral quickness, and the ability to handle the ball with an improving shooting touch from the perimeter. He’s also added moves to create space for mid-range pull-ups.
Defensively, Diakite is a versatile presence. He can switch on screens, hold his own on the perimeter, and protect the rim with his shot-blocking ability. His size and athleticism make him a force on both ends of the court.
Joining Iowa, Diakite brings this versatile skill set, along with a strong work ethic and a desire to develop further. He highlighted the relationship he built with Hawkeyes head coach Fran McCaffery during the recruiting process: "The communication from the coaching staff and Coach Fran was important. I feel Coach Fran understands me as a person and knows how to utilize my basketball talents to help me grow my game and ultimately lead to winning basketball."
Coach McCaffery, who boasts a 531-368 career record (280 wins at Iowa), has a history of success, and Diakite looks to be a key piece in continuing that tradition.
Diakite’s focus has always been on keeping his head down and working hard, a mindset he’ll carry into the Big Ten next year.
Want to see him in action before then? Diakite and his South Kent teammates will take the court next weekend at the National Prep Showcase at Albertus Magnus College, hosted by the New England Recruiting Report. Tickets will be available at the gate.
Badara Diakite
London Jemison