The Phoenix Suns have signed Mamadi Diakite to an Exhibit-10 contract, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, allowing the 6-foot-9 forward to participate in their training camp. Diakite, who received $1.4 million from the Knicks as part of the Mikal Bridges trade, now has a chance to earn a place on the Suns’ roster. This Exhibit-10 deal provides him with the opportunity to either secure a contract with Phoenix or continue developing with the Valley Suns in the G League.
Additionally, the Valley Suns, Phoenix’s G League affiliate, have acquired Diakite’s returning player rights from the Westchester Knicks in exchange for Theo Maledon and Trevion Williams. Diakite, who went undrafted in 2020 after helping Virginia win the NCAA Championship in 2019, has been gradually building his NBA experience, having played in 55 NBA games with teams including the Milwaukee Bucks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks.
During the 2023-24 G League season, Diakite averaged 14.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game over 18 games with the Knicks and Austin Spurs. While his defense and rebounding have been strong points, his shooting needs improvement. Diakite showed potential as a stretch forward by attempting 3.5 three-pointers per game but struggled with efficiency, shooting just 31.7% from beyond the arc. Nevertheless, he has made progress in the G League, hitting 34.3% of his 140 three-point attempts over 42 games, suggesting room for further development in his shooting.
Diakite’s previous experience with Mike Budenholzer during his rookie season with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he was part of the 2021 NBA Championship team, could benefit him as he tries to make the Suns’ roster. His familiarity with Budenholzer’s coaching style might help him secure a role with Phoenix.
Although Diakite’s NBA career has featured short tenures and developmental phases, his versatile skill set makes him a promising prospect for the Suns. His defensive capabilities, shot-blocking, and rebounding are valuable, particularly as the league values big men who can stretch the floor. Despite inconsistent three-point shooting, Diakite’s potential to become a reliable stretch forward aligns with the Suns’ needs.
For now, Diakite will aim to impress during training camp to earn a roster spot. If he does not make the NBA team, Phoenix can still keep him in their organization through the G League, providing him more time to develop his skills. The Valley Suns’ investment in Diakite suggests they are committed to his growth. With a roster lacking players who match Diakite’s unique skill set, he represents a potentially low-risk, high-reward option as the Suns assess their frontcourt options.
