Keita Bates-Diop: stats, last game & news

When Richard Bates decided to add "Diop" to his son's last name, inspired by Senegalese scientist Cheikh Anta Diop, he had no idea he was shaping the identity of a future professional basketball player with many dimensions. Keita Bates-Diop embodies this cultural richness, blending his Nigerian and Senegalese roots with his American journey.

Ranked among the top 25 high school players in the country from Normal, Illinois, the forward chose Ohio State University, where his path took an unexpected turn. An injury during his junior year forced him to sit out a full season, turning what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth. That trial built the resilience that would come to define his professional career.

Selected 48th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bates-Diop quickly established himself as a valuable contributor thanks to his versatility. Capable of making an impact on both ends of the floor, he excels in defensive systems while knowing how to seize his offensive opportunities. His NBA journey has taken him from the Timberwolves to the Brooklyn Nets, with stops in Denver, San Antonio, and Phoenix along the way.

A tibia fracture suffered in March 2024 marked another turning point in his career, leading him to the Chinese Basketball Association where he joined the Qingdao Eagles. This international experience speaks to his adaptability and his desire to keep competing at the highest level, whatever the circumstances.