By Ron P. Coderre

The much anticipated announcement regarding the college selection of former Putnam Science Academy Mustang and current Woodstock Academy Post Graduate power forward Mamadou Diarra was worth the wait.

Surrounded by media outlets from throughout Connecticut, the 6-foot, 8-inch Diarra calmly and eloquently stated his decision to attend the University of Connecticut with the Class of 2017 and play for coach Kevin Ollie.  In selecting the Huskies Diarra noted that in addition to his family in Queens, he’s developed an extended family in northeastern Connecticut.  He also emphasized that he senses a strong connection with the coaching style of Kevin Ollie.

Two years ago Diarra transferred to Putnam Science Academy from Redemption Academy in South Carolina as a raw young man with a wealth of undeveloped basketball talent.  In coming to Putnam, Diarra hooked up with a coach and mentor, Tom Espinosa, who has brought out the best in this young man both athletically and academically.

“Coach Espo has taught me so much, not only about basketball but also about life.  I’ve learned about the responsibility I have to my team, school, family and community.  Coach has been like a father to me,” said Diarra. 

Under Espinosa the likeable Diarra has blossomed.  Following his transfer midway through the 2013-2014-season Diarra was used sparingly and averaged five points per game.  He was the beneficiary however, of being a member of a Mustang team that was invited for the first time to the National Prep Championship.

Last year Diarra was a starter in the beginning of the season.  His penchant for getting into foul trouble forced a change in strategy for Coach Espinosa with his big man.  Espinosa began using Diarra off the bench and the strategy paid off for the team and Diarra.  His numbers improved to 14 points per game and his intensity increased.  The Mustangs posted a 28-7 record.  Diarra was also part of the second Putnam Science Academy team to participate in the National tournament.

“Mamadou is a real talent but we had to light the fire for his ability to blossom.  He’s a hard worker who responds well to instruction.  Many hours in the gym working on drills to improve his inside game have made him a more complete player,” said Espinosa.

With Espinosa, Woodstock Academy associate headmaster Holly Singleton and athletic director Aaron Patterson by his side, Diarra spoke positively about the future of the Woodstock Academy Post Graduate basketball program.  The move also has coach Espinosa enthused.

“We’re looking forward to moving on to Woodstock.  I’m especially pleased for the players, who’ll have an opportunity to mature on the basketball court and in the classroom.  I’m anxious to get things underway,” said Espinosa.

Diarra, who had feelers and offers from more than 30 schools, had narrowed his choices to two finalists, Virginia Commonwealth University and Connecticut.  

“Deep down inside I always really wanted to go to UConn,” said Diarra.

In the past few months Diarra’s had the opportunity to watch the Huskies in action up close, sitting behind the team bench during a game.  He also had the luxury of playing against some of the Husky team members, which was a great experience.  He more than held his own in the competition, which also convinced UConn he was their man.

Diarra graduated on Saturday, May 23 from Putnam Science Academy.  Now that the decision has been made to commit to the University of Connecticut, the work of improving his overall game must continue and that will be done next season in Woodstock.

“He knows he needs to get better.  He’s maturing on schedule and he’s a smart guy.  He has to develop his complete game.  This will be a big year for him to improve his skills,” noted Coach Espinosa.

Diarra is the second Putnam Science Academy graduate to make the jump to an NCAA Division I basketball program.  Dayshon “Scoochie” Smith a 2013 PSA graduate is currently the starting point guard for the University of Dayton Flyers.  It’s possible that following next season, a former Putnam Science Academy player and current Woodstock Academy PG player Hamidou Diallo will be announcing his college selection, which is almost certain to be with a Division I school.

 

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