Ilimane Diop

Ilimane Diop Gaye (born April 4, 1995) is a Senegalese-Spanish professional basketball player for Baskonia. Although he was born in Dakar, Diop officially represents Spain when being on international duty since he was a baby when his family settled in Spain. Previously, he has led their junior teams to multiple bronze medals.

Professional career

A product of Spanish powerhouse Baskonia, was sent out on loan to minor league team to gain playing time and experience. Diop made his debut for Baskonia in the Spanish top-flight ACB in the course of the 2013-14 campaign.

An early entry candidate for the 2016 NBA draft, he later withdrew his name.

International career

After achieving a bronze medal with the under-16 team and the under-18 team, on 11 July 2016, Diop made his debut with the national team in a friendly game played in Burgos against Angola. He scored four points and grabbed three rebounds to collaborate in the win by 85–61.

Player profile

Standing 6'11" with a wingspan of 7'11" feet, Diop is regarded as one of the most potent players in the Liga ACB and possibly a future NBA draft selection. Length has been an inevitable problem for his opponents, who have struggled against the pick-and-roll and rebounds. He is also noted for his raw talent that could grow into a "great basketball body." Balance, footwork, and strength have remained intangibles for the center.

Personal life

His brother Mamadou is also a basketball player.