By Ron P. Coderre

Last year when the Putnam Science Academy basketball team was driving to a 29-5 record and 5th place in the National Prep School National poll, Mamadou Diarra joined the Mustangs two-thirds of the way through the season.  Although his presence was helpful in the success of the team, the full impact of his ability wasn’t totally witnessed.

As the 2014-2015 season approaches coach Tom Espinosa will have an opportunity to see the true ability of the 6-foot, 8-inch Diarra, who has a huge wingspan for an inside player making him an  intimidator in the middle.  In 12 games last season Diarra averaged five points and three rebounds per game after transferring from Believe Prep in South Carolina.  This year the Mustangs are looking for more from the young man from New York.

Diarra, who is 16 years old, will be a junior at Putnam Science Academy.  Now that he’s enjoyed being part of a nationally ranked team Diarra has tasted the fruits of a winning program.  With the departure through graduation of the core of last season’s team, Espinosa is looking for Diarra to assume a leadership role.

“As a returning player we’re looking for Mamadou to pick up where he left off last season.  He has the tools to be one of the best big men in our region.  He’s considered one of the best big men in the prep ranks.  If he accepts the role of leader he can be an inside force who can change the complexion of a game,” said Espinosa.

Espinosa isn’t the only person who believes Diarra is a top notch player and game changer.  In his brief basketball life he’s drawn the serious interest of a large number of mid-major colleges.  Among the early suitors are Quinnipiac University, Fairfield University, Norfolk State University, Manhattan College, Rider College, Iona, Monmouth College and St. Peter’s College.

Coach Espinosa is assembling another solid and challenging schedule this year for his Mustangs.  The competition and a full season at Putnam Science Academy will give Diarra a big stage on which to perform.  

Will he emerge as a marquee performer or play a supporting role?  Espinosa’s betting on an Academy Award winning performance.