Well, that didn’t take long. As we reported earlier, Dioubate wanted to make a quick decision. Quick decision it was.
Just days after entering the transfer portal, former Alabama forward Mouhamed Dioubate has committed to Kentucky, giving the Wildcats one of the most versatile and productive frontcourt players on the market.
Mark Pope wasted no time making his pitch, and Dioubate clearly saw the vision. With his commitment, Kentucky adds an experienced, high-IQ, high-motor wing who brings SEC toughness, elite rebounding, and improving shooting to a roster that needed just that.
Dioubate’s Game: Exactly What Pope Needs
At 6'7", Dioubate brings positional flexibility that’s going to be invaluable for a coach like Pope, who emphasizes speed, floor spacing, and passing. Dioubate averaged 7.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game last season at Alabama while shooting a blistering 46.2% from three.
That kind of efficiency from a forward is rare—and wildly important in a system built around tempo and smart decisions. He runs the floor, defends multiple spots, and rebounds like a big despite playing on the wing.
It’s no wonder Pope made him a priority. Dioubate is a perfect complementary piece for Kentucky’s already guard-heavy roster.
Small Ball Lineup? Yes, Please.
Picture this: Jaland Lowe at the 1, Jasper Johnson at the 2, Otega Oweh at the 3, Kam Williams at the 4 and Dioubate playing a small-ball 5. It wouldn't work against every team but it could work in spurts and provide a lot of versatility on the court.
The key? Dioubate’s rebounding allows Kentucky to play smaller without giving up toughness inside. He’ll help finish defensive possessions, push in transition, and create second-chance opportunities on offense.
His skillset opens the door for fluid, fast-paced lineups, something Mark Pope values deeply. He also will add the desired toughness and rebounding Pope has said he wants to emphasize.
A Fan-Favorite in the Making
Kentucky fans are going to love this guy. Dioubate plays hard, talks on defense, and isn’t afraid to do the dirty work. But he’s not just a hustle player—his shooting stroke is real, his basketball IQ is high, and he’s still developing.
He’s the kind of player who may not always fill up the box score, but he’ll win possessions—and games—with his effort and versatility.
For a team that already has strong guard play in Jaland Lowe, Acaden Lewis, and Travis Perry, plus promising size with Garrison and Moreno, Dioubate gives Kentucky exactly what it needed: a glue guy with upside who fits seamlessly into Pope’s modern system.
What’s Next for the Roster?
The addition of Dioubate shores up a major need on the wing and in the frontcourt. With him in the fold, Kentucky can now focus on rounding out the roster—maybe another big, maybe another shooter—but the foundation is strong.
From the portal to the podium, Mouhamed Dioubate is already a win for the Wildcats.