Former Le Mans prospect Alaaeddine Boutayeb signs with Alcorn State after another NCAA transfer
Nov 4, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Rider Broncs center Alaaeddine Boutayeb (14) looks to shoot as UCLA Bruins center Aday Mara (15) defends during the second half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images
Alaaeddine Boutayeb (7’0″, 24 years old) continues his path in American college basketball. At 24, the French-Moroccan giant who came through Le Mans youth academy has just signed with Alcorn State for the 2025-2026 NCAA season. This is the fifth university for the 7’0″ center since leaving France in 2021.
Alaaeddine Boutayeb 7’2″ center transfer from Rider University signed with Alcorn State
* Hometown: Casablanca, Morocco
* High School: Miami Dade College pic.twitter.com/9a3plzFSD6— HBCU Premier Sports & More (@HBCUSports1) May 5, 2025
New challenge at Alcorn State for the former Le Mans center
Alaaeddine Boutayeb left France in 2021 after a promising season in the ELITE youth league, averaging 7.5 points with 47.1% shooting, 4.8 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in 20 minutes across 13 games with Le Mans Sarthe Basket. The Casablanca native, who was tested for the French U17 national team in 2018, then tried his luck in NCAA.
He first joined Florida State without playing, then moved to Arkansas State (15 games, 1 start), followed by Miami Dade College Junior College in 2023-2024. There, he stood out with 10.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, while being named FCSAA Citrus All-Conference Honorable Mention.
Back in NCAA last season at Rider University, he played off the bench in 15 games, averaging 1.7 points and 1.1 rebounds. He notably made his mark in the season opener, scoring 14 points on 5/7 shooting against UCLA on November 4.
A journey marked by perseverance
Through his numerous college stops, Boutayeb seems determined to find his place and playing time in the United States. His arrival at Alcorn State could offer him an opportunity to express himself more in a team from the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference).
At 24, the player who showed his potential in France still has room for improvement and a card to play. This new challenge could allow him to fully revive his NCAA career before, perhaps, returning to Europe or moving to professional basketball.
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