University of Oregon men's basketball standout Nfari Dante will showcase his abilities at the 2024 NBA Draft Combine, which will be held May 12-19 in Chicago, Illinois.
During the 2023-24 season, Dante He was a force for the Ducks, shooting 69.5 percent from the field and leading the team in rebounds (202) and blocks (41).
“Sometimes we play to win, and sometimes we play to win,” coach Dana Altman said. “Nfalee Dante is playing to win.”
Dante played a key role in getting the Ducks to the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Before the Pac-12 Tournament, ESPN bracketologist Joe Lunardi had the Ducks as a strong contender for the Big Dance. The only surefire way for Oregon State to make the tournament was to win the Pac-12 Championship.
In the Pac-12 Tournament alone, Dante shot 83.3 percent from the field and averaged 8.3 rebounds.
especially, championship game, Dante never missed a basket. The Mali center went 12-for-12 from the field for a total of 25 points. The Ducks defeated Colorado 75-68 to earn a ticket to the NCAA Tournament.
“When Dante is healthy and we're giving him the ball, he's unbelievable,” coach Dana Altman said after the game. “He's a warrior, he fights by his tail.”
In the 2024 NCAA Tournament, Dante scored 23 points in an 87-73 win. south carolina 28 points in a double overtime loss to Creighton.
“He's a difference maker,” Altman said. “His resilience over the years as he fought through two surgeries says a lot about his character.”
Dante's selfless nature continues off the court. Dante is currently using NIL's money to give back to his mother, Asetou Diabaté. Build her a house.
“I want to surprise her, but I know my brothers and sisters,” Dante said. “As long as they're good, I'm good too. We wouldn't have been able to do anything if her mother hadn't done for us. We had everything we wanted as kids. ”
While Dante's accomplishments and personality on the court are undeniable, there are question marks surrounding his eligibility for the upcoming college season.Oregon reportedly filed a report exemption request After missing just six games in the 2020-21 season due to a torn ACL, Dante applied to the NCAA for an additional year of eligibility.
Pending the NCAA's decision, Dante hopes to impress NBA scouts at the combine, which will be held from May 12-19.