Player: Massal Diouf
Class: 2022
Height: 6'9
Position: Forward/Center
School: Western Canada Academy
We continue to look back at players that participated at the Phenom PG Nationals not long ago, as college coaches were swarming the arena to check out the talent in the building. One player that caught our eyes and should have caught theirs was 2022 unsigned senior 6'9 Massal Diouf from Western Canada Academy.
Watching Diouf for the first time, his stature is what immediately stands out but then you watch more of his game and you see the flashes that would make him an intriguing prospect at the next level. His blend of physicality on both ends of the court, mobility, versatility, and impact down low or in transition are factors you don't always see with someone his size. At the event, he excelled on the boards, was able to display good handles and push in transition at times. But he also manhandled opponents down low in the post and displayed a tremendous motor, outworking his opponent on several occasions.
There are plenty of programs that could use a player much like Diouf but he has flown a little under the radar, possibly being further up north. But if there is a program still looking, Diouf could be one to target.
Coach's Thoughts:
'Diouf is a 6'9, 235-pound big man that can play inside and out (7.2 wingspan also). He came in with FIBA experience under his belt, having suited up for the Dutch National Team at the U16 and U18 age groups. He was much bigger when he came in and by focusing on his body, he was able to add mobility and verticality to his game while keeping his strength. His strength is impressive for his size, as are his low-post skills and footwork. He can hold a deep seal for almost as long as he wants in most scenarios. He has improved drastically with his outside shot, shooting 40 percent from three on the season, and his ability to handle and make good decisions as a ball-handler has also taken place this season. He has taken a huge jump in his outside skills this season while chiseling out the rest of his inside game.
