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Knicks reward rookie Mohamed Diawara with full NBA deal (Report)

Originally posted on Knicks X-Factor | By Connor Long | Last updated Oct 20, 2025 6:24 PM ET

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the New York Knicks have signed second-round pick Mohamed Diawara to a standard one-year rookie NBA contract.

The New York Knicks and No. 51 overall pick Mohamed Diawara have agreed on a standard, one-year rookie NBA deal, sources tell ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 20, 2025

He had previously been on an Exhibit 10 deal before the team converted it to a standard contract, officially making him the 15th player on New York’s roster to open the season.

Diawara seized his moment in the spotlight Friday night, delivering a strong two-way performance in the New York Knicks’ preseason finale against the Charlotte Hornets.

Earning a spot in the starting lineup, the 20-year-old forward posted eight points and matched the team high with seven rebounds in 21 minutes. New York outscored Charlotte by 12 during his time on the floor, the second-best mark among Knicks starters, trailing only center Trey Jemison III.

After a gritty preseason showing, he earned a spot on the Knicks’ regular-season roster, bringing a blend of high-end athleticism and length to the frontcourt.

This is a developing story; more news to come.

This article first appeared on Knicks X-Factor and was syndicated with permission.

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