The New York Knicks signed second-round pick Mohamed Diawara to an Exhibit 10 contract, giving him a shot at making the NBA roster this season.
Fresh off being selected 51st overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, French forward Mohamed Diawara is set to join the Knicks’ training camp roster. The young talent, who last season played for Cholet Basket in France, averaged 6.1 points and 3.2 rebounds across 49 games. His versatility on both ends of the court caught the Knicks’ attention as they look to develop him into a solid contributor down the line.
Diawara impressed the Knicks during the Summer League, where he showcased his well-rounded skill set. In four games, he averaged 7.0 points and 5.2 rebounds per contest while shooting an efficient 40 percent from the field. This strong showing proved that he can compete at a high level and earned him the opportunity to fight for a spot on the Knicks’ roster under head coach Mike Brown.
Despite his promise, Diawara faces stiff competition to crack the final roster. The Knicks have brought in several free agents on training camp deals, including Malcolm Brogdon, Landry Shamet, Matt Ryan, Garrison Mathews, and Alex Len. With only a handful of roster spots open, Diawara must continue to develop his game and stand out among a crowded group of hopefuls.
Known for his two-way potential, Diawara offers the Knicks flexibility thanks to his ability to impact the game on offense and defense. While he is considered a longer-term project, his physical tools and basketball IQ suggest he could evolve into a valuable role player. The Knicks are clearly betting on his upside as they build a competitive squad for the upcoming NBA season.
By signing Diawara to an Exhibit 10 deal, the Knicks maintain flexibility. This type of contract allows the team to convert the deal into a two-way contract or assign him to their G League affiliate while retaining his rights. It’s a smart move that gives the franchise control over his development path while giving Diawara a platform to prove his worth.
The training camp will be a critical period for Diawara. He’ll get a chance to learn from seasoned veterans and NBA coaches, refine his skills, and make a case for why he deserves a roster spot. The Knicks’ coaching staff will evaluate his progress closely, especially how he adapts to the faster pace and physicality of the NBA game.
Fans should keep an eye on Diawara as a potential sleeper pick for the Knicks. His blend of size, skill, and basketball instincts could pay dividends if he continues to grow and seize the opportunities presented during camp and preseason. The journey from second-round pick to NBA contributor is challenging, but Diawara’s early signs are promising.
As the Knicks gear up for what promises to be an exciting season, Mohamed Diawara’s signing adds another intriguing piece to their roster puzzle. If he can make the leap, he could become an important part of New York’s rotation and help push the team toward success in the coming years.
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