Charlotte Hornets Capture Attention with Olympic Dreams

Charlotte basketball is making international headlines, and it’s not just because of what’s happening at Spectrum Center.

Two rising Hornets, Tidjane Salaün and Moussa Diabaté have earned early nods for France’s national team, signaling Charlotte’s growing imprint on global hoops. While the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics may seem distant, France’s early shortlist is already packed with NBA firepower, and these Hornets are firmly in the mix.

Salaün, Charlotte’s 2024 lottery pick, has been steadily turning heads in his rookie campaign. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 5.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 20.7 minutes per game during his first year. His versatility and defensive upside make him a tantalizing prospect for a French squad looking to build off a silver medal finish in Paris.

Moussa Diabaté, a high-energy big man acquired via free agency, carved out a niche role this season, averaging 5.7 points and 6.2 rebounds in just under 18 minutes a night. His athleticism and relentless rebounding make him an ideal fit for France’s fast-paced international style.

Being mentioned alongside names like Victor Wembanyama, Rudy Gobert, and Bilal Coulibaly is a huge honor.

France’s early Olympic pool also features NBA phenoms Wembanyama and Zaccharie Risacher, top picks in 2023 and 2024 respectively, adding depth and height to an already stacked roster. That talent surge is redefining expectations for French basketball on the world stage, and giving players like Salaün and Diabaté a high bar to meet.

Charlotte fans should be watching closely. While these call-ups don’t guarantee a spot in L.A., they do show that the Hornets are developing talent recognized well beyond U.S. borders. If either player cracks the final roster in 2028, it’ll be a major win, not just for France, but for a Hornets franchise steadily crafting a new global identity.

So, Hornets Nation keep your eyes on blue, white, and red. Because your buzz may soon echo on Olympic hardwood.