Player cut by Grizzlies has found a new NBA home

The Phoenix Suns continue to make moves as they prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, this time bringing in a new addition with championship experience. Forward Mamadi Diakite has signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Suns, giving him a chance to compete for a roster spot in training camp.

The news was first reported by HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto:

"Phoenix Suns have agreed to an Exhibit 10 deal with Mamadi Diakite, sources told @hoopshype. Diakite received $1.4M from the Knicks in the Mikal Bridges trade and now goes to training camp with Phoenix. He was also on the Bucks when they won the 2021 title under Mike Budenholzer," Scotto reported.

Diakite’s recent moves

Diakite, who was part of the Memphis Grizzlies' roster for a brief stint, was recently waived by the team following his acquisition from the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Ziaire Williams trade. Memphis announced his release in late August, giving him the opportunity to explore other options.

Via the Grizzlies on August 27: "The Memphis Grizzlies today announced the team waived forward Mamadi Diakite. Diakite (6-9, 228) has appeared in 55 games (six starts) and has averaged 3.1 points and 2.3 rebounds in 9.6 minutes for the Milwaukee Bucks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks since he went unselected in the 2020 NBA Draft out of Virginia."

A champion’s experience

At 6-foot-9, Diakite brings experience and defensive versatility to Phoenix. He was part of the Milwaukee Bucks' 2021 championship team under coach Mike Budenholzer and has appeared in 55 NBA games across several teams. Diakite holds career averages of 3.1 points and 2.3 rebounds in just under 10 minutes per game.

For Phoenix, the Exhibit 10 deal gives Diakite a chance to prove himself in training camp, with the potential to secure a spot on a team aiming to make a deep playoff run.

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